European Commission president asserts significance of partnership with Egypt

CAIRO – 17 February 2022: President Abdel Fatah al- Sisi met Thursday with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen a few hours before the 6th European Union – African Union Summit kicks off in Brussels.

Spokesperson of the Egyptian Presidency Ambassador Bassam Rady indicated in a press statement that the president of the European Commission affirmed her eagerness on regular communication with President Sisi given that Egypt is a significant partner of the European Union. She also underscored the union's desire to push forward cooperation with Egypt on all levels in light of the country's weight in the region.

 

In turn, the Egyptian president welcomed continuing cooperation with the president of the European Commission, expressing interest in developing and deepening the traditional partnership between Egypt and the European Union (EU).

The president pointed out that the Mediterranean extending between the European and Egyptian coasts has enabled exchanging civilization and trade, as well as cultural and political influence.

 

The meeting tackled developments on bilateral ties, particularly in the sectors of new and renewable energy, infrastructure, and green transformation. Both leaders also discussed combating illegal migration, terrorism, and extremism as well as Egypt's hosting of COP 27 in Sharm El Sheikh in November.  

They also conferred over main political issues of mutual interest in the Mediterranean, Middle East, and North Africa. In that context, the president of the European Commission affirmed the European Union's perception of the Egyptian role as pivotal in achieving balance regarding all regional issues.