Sisi: maritime border agreement debate is over, nothing hidden

CAIRO – 20 June 2017: President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi stressed the maritime border agreement discussion is over and nothing to be hidden anymore, following a parliament’s approval of the transfer of two Red Sea islands to Saudi Sovereignty.

During his speech, Sisi asserted Egypt respects the law and is guided only by domestic and international laws not by passion or illusions, according to a Presidency statement.

“We should not doubt each other’s goodwill. We are in a rescue mission. Threats are still surrounding us,” Sisi stressed during the iftar ceremony.

According to the statement, Sisi noted that his advisors asked him not to mention the border agreement in any public event, but he insisted on keeping his promises to the people to clarify any disputing issue.

“Advisors recommended avoiding any talk about that agreement until the presidential elections take place in 2018,” Sisi revealed.

Sisi said he will discuss the disputing issues about that agreement in the upcoming conference with youth. “Rights can be restored without wars,” Sisi added.

The agreement between both countries was announced in April 2016 following a visit by the Saudi Arabian king to Cairo.

In a June 14 general assembly of Parliament, nearly 400 MPs voted in favor of the transfer of the islands of Tiran and Sanafir to Saudi Arabia. The decision comes after five committee sessions, beginning on Sunday, June 11, and leading up to the general vote.

The agreement will be endorsed by President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi and the results will be published in the official Gazette.