U.S. thanks Egypt for its role facilitating foreign nationals safe exit via Rafah crossing

CAIRO – 11 January 2024:  US State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller expressed thanks to Egypt for its role in facilitating the safe cross-border exit of U.S. and other foreign nationals via Rafah.

Posting on his "X" account, Miller said: "US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken was in Cairo today to discuss the U.S. commitment to increase humanitarian aid into Gaza, our opposition to the forced displacement of Palestinians, and our support for lasting regional peace."

Earlier, Blinken affirmed to President Abdel Fattah El Sisi the United States' commitment to regional peace and security, including the establishment of a Palestinian state. Blinken tweeted on the "X" platform, stating, "I met with President Sisi in Cairo to discuss joint efforts to expedite life-saving humanitarian aid to Gaza. I reiterated the United States' commitment to regional peace and security, including the establishment of a Palestinian state."

El Sisi, for his part, emphasized Egypt's keenness to continue coordination with the United States in the interest of regional security and stability. This statement was made during the reception of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and his accompanying delegation earlier in the day.

Presidential Spokesperson Ahmed Fahmy, mentioned that the US Secretary of State conveyed greetings and appreciation from President Biden to President Sisi.

Blinken also highlighted Egypt's ongoing efforts to de-escalate the situation in the region and promote peace and stability, added the spokesman, noting that Sisi reiterated Egypt's commitment to continued coordination between the two sides in the interest of regional security and stability.