President Sisi heads to Abu Dhabi for talks with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed

CAIRO – 16 January 2025: President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi is traveling to the Emirati capital, Abu Dhabi, on Thursday for discussions with President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, focusing on bilateral relations and regional developments.

During their meeting, Sisi and bin Zayed are expected to address key issues of mutual interest, particularly the current regional situation, according to a statement from the Egyptian Presidency.

The two leaders will explore ways to restore security and stability in the region.

Additionally, their discussions will encompass ways to enhance Egyptian-Emirati cooperation to meet the aspirations of their peoples.

Egypt and the UAE have strengthened their ties over recent years across various sectors, notably in the economy, with both countries signing a landmark $35 billion agreement to develop Ras El Hekma city on Egypt's North Coast.

They have also exchanged frequent high-level visits and maintained close coordination on regional issues, including the Gaza crisis, and have collaborated in delivering much-needed humanitarian aid to the enclave, including through airdrops.

The talks between Sisi and bin Zayed come at a pivotal moment, as both Hamas and Israel agreed to a ceasefire agreement on Wednesday after more than a year of negotiations.

If officially approved by Israel, the ceasefire will end more than 15 months of fighting that has killed tens of thousands of Palestinian people and devastated the enclave.

The Israeli cabinet is scheduled to vote on the agreement today to take effect on Sunday.

The deal aims to facilitate the return of Israeli captives from Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and establish a ceasefire that allows for the entry of substantial humanitarian aid, addressing severe shortages of essential supplies.