Photos: President Sisi extends Christmas greetings at new capital’s cathedral, urges Egyptians to stand together

CAIRO – 6 January 2024: Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi extended greetings to Pope Tawadros II of Alexandria and the Christian people across the country on Christmas, as he attended the celebrations at the Cathedral of Christ's Nativity, the New Administrative Capital.

During his brief visit to the cathedral, Sisi urged Egyptians to stand together in the face of the challenges and difficult circumstances, which is taking place amid critical global and regional developments.

“No matter what crisis, problems, or difficult circumstances we face, thanks to Almighty God, as long as we stand together, things will pass, and difficult conditions will come to an end,” Sisi said.

 

“What matters is that our country and its people remain well,” he added.

The president also wished an end to the challenges that the entire world and the region have endured over the past year, especially the Gaza crisis.

“We have a respectable stance toward Gaza, and we strive for, at the very least, a ceasefire and the entry of aid to alleviate the suffering of our brothers in the strip. Then, afterwards, a solution to the recurring cause that causes pain for all of us,” Sisi stated.

Sisi extended his greetings to Pope Tawadros, the Head of the Coptic Orthodox Church, praising him as a loyal man whose actions prove that he is a loyal man who loves his country.

The Cathedral of Christ's Nativity in the Administrative Capital has opened its door for attendees of the Christmas mass, which began at 7:00 PM. Pope Tawadros II is leading the mass.

Numerous public figures, ministers, governors, as well as members of the House of Representatives and the Senate are attending the mass.

 

Late in December, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli issued a decision announcing Sunday a paid holiday for employees of public and private companies to mark the Coptic Orthodox Christmas.

The decision applies to employees at ministries, government institutions, public authorities, local administration units, public companies, public enterprise sector companies, and private sector companies.