Meetings with government officials

On May 4, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Lieutenant General Muhammad Zaki, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Minister of Defense and Military Production, Lieutenant General Osama Askar, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, leaders of the main branches, and a number of senior leaders of the Armed Forces.

During the meeting, they discussed a number of files and topics related to the activities and tasks of the armed forces and their efforts to protect the Egyptian national security.

They also reviewed developments in the situation on the regional and international arenas and their repercussions on national security in light of the current circumstances and challenges in the region.

The President praised the efforts made by the Armed Forces in all the tasks entrusted to them and the role they play in protecting the borders of the state against all potential hostilities and threats, as well as their contribution to supporting development pillars and the completion of giant national projects in cooperation with all state institutions to provide a decent life for citizens.

On May 4, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister, Lieutenant General Muhammad Zaki, Minister of Defense and Military Production, Dr. Hala Al-Saeed, Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Assem El-Gazzar, Minister of Housing, Utilities and Urban Communities, and Lieutenant General Kamel, Minister Minister of Transport, Major General Ahmad Al-Azazy, Chairman of the Engineering Authority of the Armed Forces, and Eng. Khaled Abbas, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the New Administrative Capital Company.

During the meeting, the president was informed about the executive position of the transfer of the various ministries and government agencies to the New Administrative Capital, in light of the start of the actual transfer of the Council of Ministers and a number of ministries and sectors to the capital, as their number reached 14 ministries and government agencies, while the rest of the ministries and agencies are preparing to move during the next short period.

The President directed to continue working to make the government’s move to the New Administrative Capital a foundation for the comprehensive modernization of the Egyptian administrative apparatus, in a manner that is characterized by governance and digitization. The president also directed to pay attention to institutional development, and to select the most efficient cadres in all institutions.

On May 6, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Major General Amir Sayed Ahmad, Advisor to the President of the Republic for Urban Planning, and Colonel Pilot Bahaa El-Ghanem, Executive Director of Egypt’s Future Authority for Sustainable Development.

During the meeting, the ongoing efforts on all axes of the "Egypt's Future" project in the various sectors of the Republic were presented, whether with regard to land reclamation, the establishment of silos for storing grains and grains, or agricultural processing to maximize the added value of agricultural production.

The efforts exerted to increase the utilization of modern technology in land reclamation, and the use of the latest irrigation systems and agricultural mechanization were also presented.

The President directed to continue the tight implementation of all current and future components of the project, in a way that ensures its absorption of the path of development and urban development, and the consequent intensity of transport and trade, indicating that the “New Delta” project in general aims to bring about a qualitative addition to the agricultural area in Egypt.

On May 7, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister, Lieutenant General Muhammad Zaki, Minister of Defense and Military Production, Major General Abbas Kamel, Head of General Intelligence, Major General Mahmoud Tawfiq, Minister of Interior, and Lieutenant General Kamel El-Wazeer, Minister of Transport.

During the meeting, the President was informed of the developments in the process of evacuating Egyptian citizens from Sudan and facilitating their return to the homeland.

The president directed to ensure the safe return of Egyptians from Sudan, as well as to provide the necessary relief, medical and food services at the land crossings between Egypt and Sudan, in light of the role played by Egypt, government and people, in standing by the brotherly Sudanese people in the current crisis.

On May 8, 2023, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi met with Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister, Dr. Assem El-Gazzar, Minister of Housing, Utilities and Urban Communities, Major General Khaled Abdel-Al, Governor of Cairo, Major General Amir Sayed Ahmad, Advisor to the President of the Republic for Urban Planning, and Major General Ahmad Al-Azazy, Chairman of the Armed Forces Engineering Authority.

During the meeting, they followed-up the ongoing projects to develop the historical areas in Cairo, including the area surrounding Salah El-Din Al-Ayyubi Citadel, within the framework of the state's plan to restore the civilized face of Cairo and its ancient historical splendor.

The President directed to pay attention to preserving archaeological sites and facilities of historical value  so as to highlight the unique character of the region, in addition to increasing green spaces to become an outlet for the residents and visitors of the region.

On May 8, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Counselor Omar Marawan, Minister of Justice.

During the meeting, they followed up the process of developing the litigation system at the level of the Republic, where the most prominent topics were presented in this context, including the expansion of the application of artificial intelligence techniques in converting speech into written text during judicial sessions.

The president directed to promote the use of the latest technological means in this regard, in a way that helps to control and govern all elements of the system, and contributes to achieving prompt justice.

The Minister of Justice presented the developments in the ongoing efforts to prepare and draft the new package of family laws, which is the draft personal status law for Muslims, the draft personal status law for Christians, as well as the draft law establishing and organizing the Egyptian Family Support Fund. The president, in this regard, directed to conduct a broad and in-depth community dialogue on draft laws whose preliminary drafting is completed, to listen carefully and seriously to all voices, and to accommodate the various concerns and opinions that would achieve the desired purposes of the laws, which are the preservation of rights, the protection of children, and the support of family cohesion, in a way that achieves the public interest.

On May 11, 2023, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi met with Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister, Eng. Tarek El-Molla, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Eng. Mahmoud Esmat, Minister of Public Business Sector, and Major General Staff Walid Abul-Magd, Director General of the National Service Projects Agency of the Armed Forces, and Major General Staff Abdel Salam Shafiq, Chairman of the Egyptian Company for Mining, Management and Exploitation of Quarries and Salines.

During the meeting, the ongoing efforts to develop Egypt’s benefit from mineral resources were presented.

The President directed to continue working on managing and exploiting the mineral wealth and raw materials available in Egypt, stressing the adoption of the best methods of modern management and advanced technological techniques, in a way that maximizes the added value of Egypt's mineral wealth, and contributes to strengthening the industrial plan of the state and the national economy.

On May 11, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Dr. Muhammad Awad Taj El-Din, Advisor to the President of the Republic for Health and Prevention Affairs, to follow up on the executive position of a number of national initiatives in the health sector.

During the meeting, the president was informed of the results of implementing the various presidential initiatives, within the state's efforts to improve public health. In this regard, the president directed to achieve optimal utilization of the capabilities available in all institutions of the medical system, whether affiliated to the Ministry of Health or university hospitals, with the aim of enhancing these initiatives, and improving Health service provided to citizens.

Dr. Muhammad Awad Taj El-Din presented the latest developments in the implementation of the comprehensive health insurance system, clarifying the next steps and the time plan in this regard. The President directed to continue the implementation stages of the system, in order to reach the desired goal to include all governorates of the Republic.

On May 11, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister, and Lieutenant General Kamel Al-Wazir, Minister of Transport.

During the meeting, the president was briefed on the developments of the intensive efforts, in which the state is participating with the local and foreign private sector, to establish integrated development logistical hubs, linking production areas of all kinds with seaports. In addition to that, the ongoing efforts to develop the shipping system, sea and land transport were presented.  

The President directed the government to prepare an integrated package of incentives, exemptions, and facilities, in a number of industrial and logistical areas in Egypt. The president directed to encourage transit trade, manufacturing, and export and re-export operations, with the aim of giving a strong impetus to these sectors and increasing their competitive advantages.

The president was also informed of the executive position of the process of developing and rehabilitating the metro lines, the first with a length of 44 km, and the second with a length of 22 km, in addition to the ongoing work to construct the fourth line of the metro with a length of 42 km. In this regard, the president directed to pay due attention to improving the level of the service provided.

On May 13, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Major General Amir Sayed Ahmad, Advisor to the President of the Republic for Urban Planning, and Major General Gamal Awad, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Authority for Social Insurance.

During the meeting, they followed up on the process of developing the National Social Insurance Authority, within the framework of a comprehensive future vision that includes modernizing the administrative structure of the Authority and its insurance headquarters.

The president directed to continue working on the comprehensive development of the authority, especially through electronic modernization and digital archiving, as well as raising the efficiency of its infrastructure, within the framework of the state’s endeavor to improve the level of insurance services provided to pensioners and beneficiaries.  

On May 16, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi chaired the first meeting of the Supreme Investment Council after restructuring, in the presence of Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister, Mr. Hassan Abdullah, Governor of the Central Bank, and gentlemen, ministers, officials, and representatives of the private sector who are members of the Council.

During the meeting, the president affirmed the state’s keenness to take the necessary serious and decisive measures and steps to achieve a real breakthrough in the process of attracting, encouraging and promoting investment, both domestic and foreign, eliminating bureaucratic obstacles, and overcoming various challenges facing increasing private sector investments.

The Prime Minister made a presentation during the meeting that included the most important indicators and facts related to investment in Egypt, the measures that have been taken during the recent period to improve the investment environment, ways to double private sector investments, and proposals to provide incentives and facilities to create an attractive climate for investments in various sectors.

Field tours

On May 1, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi honored a number of workers, trade unionists, and honorable models from the private and public sectors, on the day of the Labor Day celebration.

On May 1, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi visited the Sharkia Sugar Factory in the new city of Salhia.

On April 5, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi inspected the Egyptian Military Academy and a number of facilities at the Strategic Command Headquarters and in the New Administrative Capital.

On May 14, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi witnessed the inauguration of the wheat harvest season and the potato production plant in East Owainat, New Valley Governorate.

On May 25, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi witnessed the inauguration of the quartz production factories complex in the Ain Sukhna region.

On May 30, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi attended the tests that were held for applicants to join jobs in the Ministry of Education and Technical Education, which were carried out in cooperation with the Egyptian Military Academy, in the presence of Lieutenant General Muhammad Zaki, Minister of Defense and Military Production, and Dr. Reda Hegazy, Minister of Education. and Technical Education, Lieutenant General Ashraf Salem Zaher, Director of the Egyptian Military Academy, and a number of senior leaders of the Armed Forces and officials of the Ministry of Education and Technical Education.

On May 1, 2023: President El-Sisi’s Speech at Celebration Marking Labor Day

“In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful”

 The great people of Egypt,

Ladies and gentlemen,

It gives me pleasure, at the outset, to extend to you all my sincere greetings on the occasion of Labor Day. Many happy returns, with our precious Egypt in progress and prosperity.

The loyal workers of Egypt,

History has always recorded, with letters of light, your well-known role in building this homeland throughout time and eras.

The eternal Egyptian civilization, since the dawn of history until today, speaks of the Egyptians’ reverence for work; a reverence that made us today see these lofty accomplishments achieved in an array of fields by our ancestors, after they were armed with impeccable organization, scientific knowledge, and the spirit of determination, challenge and struggle.

And today, in this world that is characterized by competition and constant change, the importance of these values doubles. Accommodating the highest degrees of modern science, absorbing and adapting it to produce applied technology, establishing and consolidating the skills of discipline and accuracy, unleashing the power of creativity as well as delving into all the requirements of modern management and the advanced industrial development, all these have become factors, without which achieving progress and prosperity for the peoples would be hard.

Then successive global crises occurred; the coronavirus pandemic to the Russian-Ukrainian crisis came to add more hardships to the ones already facing a number of world countries, particularly developing countries, including Egypt.

Therefore, we are always keen on providing utmost support and care to the workers: The minimum wage was increased and we launched and strengthened social protection programs. We are also providing the necessary support for irregular workers, working on integrating people of determination into the labor market, and expanding national projects to create decent job opportunities, in addition to the preparation of the National Employment Strategy (NES).

In light of our huge interest in work and the state of workers and of our dependence on Egypt’s workers to contribute to the comprehensive renaissance that we are working toward, we decided the following:

-To create an emergency relief fund for irregular employment. Social and health accounts dues shall be transferred to it, thus they would be invested and used in emergencies and crises for irregular workers in a sustainable manner. This, in turn, would help maximize the social and developmental return of the fund.

-To start activating the fund immediately once all legal procedures are completed by disbursing emergency funding of 1,000 Egyptian Pounds for irregular workers, who do not benefit from social protection programs.

-To issue a new document, "Aman" certificate, which was previously issued in 2017 to cover life insurance and work injuries for irregular workers.

-To stress on all private sector establishments, the public sector and the public business sector, to employ persons with disabilities to represent 5% of their workforce, as per the law, and to continue working on developing their skills and integrating them into the labor market.

-To have the Supreme Council for Social Dialogue in the field of employment study the draft labor law presented to the House of Representatives, in the presence of workers' and employers' representatives, and agree on its final version. This shall guarantee that workers' rights are preserved and ensure a work environment that is conducive to investment.

-To promote compliance with international labor standards and ensure that labor legislation and its implementation comply with international labor conventions ratified by Egypt.

-To have the Ministry of Manpower launch the national platform for labor market information, expeditiously.

-To have ministries and concerned authorities, in coordination with the private sector, rapidly finalize the procedures aimed at achieving gender equality in the field of employment; ensuring a safe work environment; increasing women's employment rates, integrating them into the labor market and developing their skills; and protecting working women and ensuring that they strike a balance between their job requirements and family duties. These efforts are part of endeavors to activate the national plan for gender equality in the field of employment that was launched in 2022.

-To launch a national campaign to improve the mental image in society of the value and importance of work for the individual and society, and encourage young people to integrate themselves into self-employment and entrepreneurship and to establish their small, medium and micro enterprises.

-Ministries and concerned authorities shall prepare for future jobs, identify the required occupations in the future labor market and the skills needed for them, and work to develop human resources skills, commensurate with the future of jobs and the needs of the labor market.

Egypt’s valued workers,

Building the homeland and the future cannot take place optimally without the hands of Egypt’s loyal workers, their proper awareness and constantly evolving skills. This requires the government to make the necessary coordination with all relevant institutions, to expand training programs for young people of both sexes and to continue to develop training centers under the umbrella of the Presidential Initiative “Decent Life” or “Hayah Karima”.

And I tell you that: together we are able, God willing, to continue to work and progress with a determination to succeed and trust in God’s blessings for us. Let Egypt live always and forever, a dear and precious homeland that deserves from us all loyalty and sacrifice.

With its loyal workers:

Long live Egypt… Long live Egypt… Long live Egypt.

 

Thank you, many happy returns.

May Allah’s peace, mercy and blessings be upon you.

On May 3, 2023: Speech by President El-Sisi at the Opening Session of the National Dialogue

The great people of Egypt,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Distinguished guests,

With appreciation and pride, I salute you for meeting to engage in dialogue and exchange visions.

We seek the welfare of our dear homeland and desire to shape the features of our new Republic, a modern democratic state, which we, Egyptians, seek. We seek to set, for our children and grandchildren, a road map for a promising and bright future that befits them.

Ladies and gentlemen,

My invitation to the national dialogue, which I launched during the Egyptian Family Iftar, comes from a firm belief I have. Our Egyptian nation possesses the capabilities and potential that provide it with multiple alternatives to find pathways for progress in all areas, politically, economically and socially. Our precious Egypt, possesses competent minds, sincere intentions and the will to work, which makes it at the forefront of nations and states. Our dreams and hopes impose on us to get along, unite to work, and reach agreement.

The growing challenges facing the Egyptian State at all levels have strengthened my determination to hold a dialogue, which I aspire that it becomes inclusive, effective and vibrant, including all views, bringing together all perspectives and achieving tangible and studied results on all issues at all levels.

Over the past year, since I called for the national dialogue, I have followed closely, with great interest, the preparatory measures and the process of creating the atmosphere necessary to launch it. I stressed, in your presence today, and that is what I have stated before, that differences of opinions won’t spoil countries. I assure you, nevertheless, that the scale of diversity and the difference of visions and proposals strongly enhance the efficiency of the outputs I wait for from all of you, a distinguished group bringing all members of the Egyptian society together.

I salute again all participants in this esteemed national experience.

I call on you to make efforts to succeed, to face and analyze problems and issues, and to find solutions and alternatives to them, wishing Allah Almighty to make our efforts a success. I affirm my continuous support for this dialogue and for providing all the means to make it a success and activating its outcomes, within the framework of democracy and active political practice. I look forward to participating in its final stages.

In the end, I wish you success and prosperity in this great national mission and I would like to thank and express my appreciation to all those involved in organizing it. Our dear and precious Egypt deserves our effort, sweat and blood, and that we unite for our love to it. Egypt is the ends and means, always.

Long live Egypt, long live Egypt, long live Egypt.

Thank you, May Allah’s peace, mercy and blessings be upon you.

On May 19, 2023: President El-Sisi's Speech at 32 Arab League Summit

In the Name of Allah, the Most Benevolent, the Most Merciful,

My brother, Your Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the fraternal Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,

Your Majesties, Your Excellences, Your Highnesses, the Kings, Princes and Heads of State and Government of

Brotherly Arab States,

Your Excellency Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit,

Secretary General of the League of Arab States,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

May Allah’s peace, mercy and blessings be upon you.

 

At the outset, I would like to thank my brother, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Prime Minister, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud for the warm welcome and hospitality. I would also like to express my sincere appreciation for the genuine effort made by my brother, President of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria, His Excellency Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune to support joint Arab action during Algeria's presidency of the Arab Summit.

 Dear brothers,

In recent years, our region has experienced harsh, extraordinary circumstances that have threatened the security and safety of our Arab peoples in an unprecedented manner. These circumstances have provoked severe anxiety among millions of Arabs toward the present and the future.

 Those who are insightful has been assured that it is mandatory and necessary to preserve the national State and strengthen its institutions, for the future and the capabilities of the people. Matters would go askew if the hopes of our peoples would remain vulnerable to chaos, external interventions, which exacerbate unrest, and let crisis resolution efforts reach a stalemate.

Relying on our common efforts, our own capabilities, and integration amongst us to formulate decisive solutions to our issues has become a duty and a responsibility. Also, the application of the concept of joint action must extend to address global crises and coordinate our work to the reform of the global economic governance system, at the heart of it; financial institutions and international development banks that should be more responsive to the challenges of the developing world, taking into account that the state of international polarization threatens globalization, which was celebrated by the world, exposing a struggle to impose wills and enforce double standards in the application of international law. 

Your Majesties, Excellences and Highnesses,

We have followed with sadness and pain how some of the Arab crises have escalated over the past period, particularly the irresponsible escalation by Israel in the Palestinian territories, most recently in the Gaza Strip. While Egypt reiterates its continued efforts to stabilize the calm, we warn that the continued management of the conflict, militarily and security, will have serious consequences for the Palestinian and Israeli peoples alike.

 It may be appropriate to reaffirm today our commitment to the strategic option of achieving comprehensive and just peace through the Arab Peace Initiative, on the basis of the resolutions of international legitimacy and demanding that Israel ends the occupation and the establishment of a Palestinian State along the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

A new crisis in Sudan is foreshadowing - if we do not cooperate to contain it- a prolonged conflict and catastrophic consequences for Sudan and the region. The crises in Libya and Yemen continue, requiring the activation of joint Arab action to resolve those issues, in a manner that is more pressing than ever.  

In the same context, Syria's return to the League of Arab States constitutes the practical activation of the Arab role and the start of an Arab march towards resolve the Syrian crisis based on international references for the solution and Security Council Resolution No. 2254. 

Your Majesties, Excellences and Highnesses,

With our realization that Arab national security is an integral whole, it is time to take the lead of the initiative to preserve it, including the important steps that our countries have taken in the past to harmonize relations with non-Arab regional parties, from which we look forward to similar and sincere steps that contribute to achieving security and stability in the region.

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that Egypt, as you have always known, will wholeheartedly and faithfully support all genuine efforts to activate the Arab role, out of its belief that joint Arab approaches are the best means to care for our interests, provide collective protection for our peoples and advance development with big strides forward. 

Thank you,

May Allah’s peace, mercy and blessings be upon you.

On May 23: President El-Sisi's Speech at the Opening of the Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank

“In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful”

Your Excellencies .. the Heads of African State  

Gentlemen .. the Heads of Government and International Organizations

Governors of the Central Banks

Ladies and Gentlemen, honorable guests

It gives me pleasure to welcome you in the city of peace “Sharm El-Sheikh”, which is honored to host the annual meetings of the African Development Bank 2023. Egypt has been keen on hosting those meetings for the third time, thus underscoring its immense interest in strengthening regional and international endeavors in support of development efforts in all corners of the African continent.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The growing and intertwined challenges that world countries are facing are clear to all of you.  With the emergence of early recovery signs from the negative repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on the world economy, the Russian-Ukrainian crisis and international political tensions came to add to the world scene unprecedented complexities, the effects of which appear in severe disruptions in global supply chains and sweeping inflationary waves.

This scene reflects more vigorously on the economies of developing countries, at the forefront of which come the economies of the African continent’s countries, which already suffer from numerous domestic challenges. This requires non-traditional ideas to explore financing options, to contribute to pushing the wheel of much-needed projects, particularly in the fields of addressing climate change challenges and sustainable development. In this regard, it is sufficient to highlight the size of some of Africa's urgent financing needs, according to estimates of the UN and the African Development Bank, including for example:

200 billion dollars annually to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals  

144 billion dollars annually to address the negative repercussions of the COVIC-19 pandemic

108 billion dollars annually to finance adaptation projects and upgrade the level of the infrastructure

Here, the significance of these meetings and the role of the African Development Bank in providing adequate financing options to the needs of the continent’s countries, emerge. These options shall achieve the hard balance between providing the huge funds necessary to realize the developmental aspirations, on one hand, and reducing risks of this financing, on the other, by building appropriate financial structures that spur multilateral financing institutions to inject more investments into the arteries of the African countries.

I would like to seize this opportunity to call on multilateral financing institutions to reconsider the criteria and conditions that qualify countries to obtain soft loans, so as to make them available for both low- and middle-income countries, particularly in light of the growing borrowing costs and the increasing debt service burdens, and their negative impact on the budgets of these countries.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The problem of climate change and its negative repercussions are not only limited to the scope of the state or a certain region, but it is an existential issue that must come at the top of the strategic priorities of all countries in the world.

Contrary to what some might think, the negative repercussions of climate change are on the rise for the least developed countries, which is evident in the countries of the African continent, where these changes lead to high drought rates, widening desertification and declining agricultural crop productivity.

Estimates indicate that drought-related risks in the African continent have resulted in losses of more than $70 billion, as well as a reduction in the continent's agricultural productivity growth by about 34%. The financing needs to address the negative repercussions of climate change in Africa, are estimated at about $3 trillion, until 2030.

In this regard, the positive results of the outcomes and recommendations of the United Nations Climate Summit COP-27, which Egypt chaired last year, are worth mentioning. At the top of those comes the agreement to establish a special fund to provide the necessary funding to compensate for losses and damages to countries affected by floods, drought and other climate disasters.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Economic realities impose the need to stimulate the private sector to assume a greater role in providing the necessary financing for the promotion of environmentally-friendly enterprises, while intensifying mechanisms for the use of clean energy sources and adopting the necessary policies and actions. In this regard, Egypt places huge interest on the environmental dimension. In 2021, the Government of Egypt issued the first edition of the "Environmental Sustainability Standards Guide”, entitled: “The Strategic Framework for Green Recovery”, with the aim of providing the necessary guidance to integrate sustainable development standards into development plans, reflecting positively on the quality of life and the development process.

Undoubtedly, the functions of the current edition of the annual meetings of the African Development Bank (AfDB) represent an outstanding opportunity to share knowledge and expertise and to provide the necessary technical support to address the implications of climate change, with a clear agenda in accordance with a timetable, to identify ways and mechanisms to deal with the various challenges facing African countries in order to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Distinguished guests of Egypt,

In conclusion, I would like, once again, to welcome all of you and wish you success in this edition of the annual meetings of the African Development Bank. And I would like to thank the African Development Bank for its tangible efforts in financing development projects across our continent, which makes us look forward to more successful partnerships with the multilateral financial institutions to realize the aspirations of our peoples for development, progress and prosperity.

Thank you,

May Allah’s peace, mercy and blessings be upon you.

On May 27, 2023: Speech by President El-Sisi at African Peace and Security Council on Sudan

 “In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful”
My brother,  Your Excellency, President of Republic of Uganda and Chair of the African Peace and Security Council, President Yoweri Museveni,
My brother, Your Excellency, President of the Republic of the Comoros and the President of the African Union, President Azali Assoumani,
My brother, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mr. Moussa Fakih,
Your Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
First, I would like to express my appreciation for inviting Egypt to participate in this important meeting to discuss the developments in Sudan.
In addition to its political significance, today’s meeting bears symbolic value, affirming the continued partnership between African parties, all international partners and relief agencies to work together towards a stable and secure Sudan. 
Ladies and gentlemen,
You may agree that the stability of Sudan, the preservation of its territorial integrity and the cohesion of its institutions will have positive results not only for the Sudanese people, but also for all regional parties.
Egypt appreciates the efforts of the African Union Commission, led by Chairperson of the Commission Moussa Fakih, to address the Sudanese crisis, most notably of which was the expanded ministerial-level meeting held on April 20, which resulted in the formation of a mechanism that comprises active parties, including Egypt.
Today's meeting seeks to adopt a de-escalation plan, formulated in coordination with neighboring states, which represents an important step towards realizing stability and internal consensus and ending the current bloody conflict.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Efforts made within the framework of the African Union are complementary to other tracks, including the Arab League, whose recent summit endorsed the formation of an Arab ministerial contact group to deal with the crisis. This is in addition to the IGAD efforts and the agreements signed during the Jeddah negotiations, stipulating the commitment to a ceasefire, opening the way for the entry and distribution of humanitarian aid, and the withdrawal of troops from public hospitals and facilities. These tracks must be based on common, coordinated and mutually supportive standards and establish  a road map for the political process to address the root causes of the issues that led to the current crisis and aims at broad and inclusive participation of all Sudanese people.
Egypt stresses the utmost importance of close coordination with neighboring countries to resolve the crisis and restore security and stability in Sudan, being an integral party and the most affected by the crisis and the keenest to end it at the soonest.
Egypt has assumed its responsibility, as a major neighboring country of the Republic of Sudan, by intensifying its engagement with all active parties and international partners to put an end to the current situation. Egypt has based its movements on a number of factors that we hope will be consistent with regional and international efforts, the most important of which are:
First: The need for a comprehensive and sustainable ceasefire that is not limited to humanitarian purposes.
Second: The necessity of preserving the national state institutions in Sudan, being the backbone for protecting the state from the risk of collapse.
Third: The conflict in Sudan concerns the Sudanese brothers. Our role as regional parties is to help them stop it, and achieve consensus on the resolution of the causes, which led to it in the first place. In this regard, Egypt stresses its respect for the Sudanese people's will, non-interference in their internal affairs and the importance of not allowing foreign intervention in their current crisis.
Fourth: The humanitarian repercussions of the Sudanese crisis extend beyond the state's borders and affect neighboring countries, with which we must coordinate closely. Egypt has committed itself to its responsibilities in this regard by receiving 150,000 Sudanese citizens to date, in addition to hosting 5 million Sudanese, who are treated as citizens. In this regard, I call on relief agencies and donor countries to provide the necessary support to neighboring countries in order to continue undertaking this role.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
In conclusion, I would like to reaffirm Egypt's continued efforts to put an end to the current crisis by supporting the efforts of the African Union and all existing mechanisms to end the current conflict and by continuing to coordinate with all partners and relief organizations, to provide Sudan with the urgent humanitarian needs, in order to alleviate the deteriorating humanitarian situation.
Dear brothers, I am fully confident that our meeting today will produce the results that the Sudanese people expect from their African brothers and compelled by our duty during the circumstances the Sudan people are experiencing, who will not forget the solidarity of its brothers, the way Sudan stood in solidarity with its brothers during the various historical stages.
May Allah bless us all for the good of our peoples.
May Allah’s peace, mercy and blessings be upon you.

Receiving kings and heads of state

On May 21, 2023, President El-Sisi received Sultan of Oman, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tareq Al Said. An official reception ceremony was held, during which the national anthems were played and the guard of honor inspected.

Spokesman for the Presidency, Counselor Ahmed Fahmy, said that during their talks the President welcomed His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tareq as an honored guest of Egypt. President El-Sisi wished him success in continuing the comprehensive development trajectory and achieving vision “Oman 2040”. The President lauded the historical and friendly relations between Egypt and the Sultanate of Oman which have been formed over long decades of solidarity, consolidation and unity in the face of crises and challenges. President El-Sisi emphasized Egypt’s commitment to promoting these outstanding relations in a manner that achieves the interests of the two brotherly peoples and the entire Arab nation.

His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tareq lauded the special Egyptian-Omani relations as well as the brotherly bonds the two peoples have shared throughout history, stressing Oman’s keenness on strengthening the existing frameworks of cooperation between the two countries and on opening up broader prospects for bilateral cooperation in all areas in the coming period. This aims to build up on the positive outcomes achieved in this regard during President El-Sisi’s visit to Muscat in June 2022, and to continue consultations and coordination between the two countries on regional and international issues of mutual interest, particularly in light of the strategic and cultural depth that Egypt represents for the Arab nation and its status as a fundamental cornerstone for maintaining security and stability in the region.

The two leaders expressed relief at the ongoing progress in trade growth, while confirming joint interest to further enhance ongoing efforts in this regard among the relevant authorities in the two countries. They also discussed ways to exchange expertise and experiences to achieve institutional development and modernize the administrative authorities in the two countries as well as their working mechanisms in a manner characterized by sound management and digitization.

The two leaders exchanged views on regional and international issues within the framework of their ongoing consultations and coordination and their endeavors to realize regional stability and security, particularly in light of the huge threats facing the region and a number of Arab countries. There was an alignment in views with regard to the need to exert intensive efforts to settle existing crises in a way that safeguards the supreme interests of the Arab peoples and preserves their resources and gains.

On May 23, 2023, President El-Sisi met with the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Emmerson Mnangagwa, in Sharm El-Sheikh.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Counselor Ahmad Fahmy, said President El-Sisi stressed the importance Egypt accords to strengthening relations with Zimbabwe across various areas, particularly trade and investment, both bilaterally and within the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) grouping. This is in addition to technical cooperation, capacity-building and infrastructure support and the President's keeness to maximize coordination and consultation with President Mnangagwa on ways to strengthen African joint action, thereby contributing to the growth and stability to which African states aspire.

The president of Zimbabwe reaffirmed that his country looked forward to developing relations and advancing  cooperation between the two countries at the official and popular levels, particularly in the fields of economy and trade. He also valued President El-Sisi's active role in addressing African issues, mainly within the framework of efforts to promote development and safeguard peace and security in the continent. The president of Zimbabwe affirmed that his country looked forward to promoting integration with Egypt in order to confront the many challenges facing the continent and require joint African efforts by activating joint African action mechanisms, particularly at the African Union level.

On May 23, 2023, President El-Sisi  met in Sharm el Sheikh with the President of the Republic of the Comoros, and the current Chairman of the African Union, President Azali Assoumani.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Counselor Ahmed Fahmy, said the meeting reviewed ways to strengthen relations between the two countries at various levels. President El-Sisi confirmed Egypt's readiness to share its experience of the Presidency of the African Union with the Comoros and effectuate joint cooperation frameworks in various fields, particularly in light of Egypt's historical ties with the Comoros at the Arab and African levels. This is in addition to the extended roots between the two brotherly peoples, in light of the large number of scholars coming from the Comoros to Egypt.

The President of the Comoros expressed his country's great appreciation for Egypt's leadership and people and its leading role in Africa, stressing interest in benefiting from Egypt's efforts, experience and vision to promote joint African action and leading the African Union, as his country assumes the current AU presidency. This requires intensified cooperation and coordination with Egypt and its leadership against the backdrop of Egypt's leverage in the region and the continent as a whole in the maintenance of peace and security, and in support of the aspirations of African peoples for development and prosperity.

The two presidents exchanged views on a number of African issues and agreed to continue consultations on ways to find solutions to Africa's crises.

Receiving foreign officials

On May 3, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with a high-level delegation from the US House of Representatives, headed by its Speaker Kevin McCarthy, and the membership of a number of chairmen and members of committees from the Republican and Democratic parties, including the Foreign Affairs, Armed Services, Cybersecurity, Infrastructure, Natural Resources, and Appropriations. From the Egyptian side, Speaker of the House of Representatives Hanafy Ali El-Gebaly and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry attended.

Spokesman for the Presidency Counselor Ahmed Fahmy said the meeting confirmed the deep longstanding strategic partnership between Egypt and the United States, as well as the close and multifold relations they share. President El-Sisi stressed that Egypt attaches importance to communicate with the US Congress leaders, within the framework of coordination and consultation between the two countries at various levels, in light of regional tension and the resulting mounting challenges, in addition to the current international situation that resulted in energy, food, and finance crises that negatively affected many countries.

The Speaker of the US House of Representatives affirmed his country's great appreciation for Egypt’s pivotal role in consolidating security, stability and peace in the Middle East, and the keenness of the United States to continue advancing cooperation between the two countries across various levels and fields.

The meeting touched on ways to restore and consolidate international peace and security and address relevant developments, as well as regional developments and crises, mainly the situation in Sudan.

President El-Sisi stressed the importance of intensifying efforts to find political solutions to existing crises, in order to preserve the unity of states, safeguard peoples’ capabilities and prevent chaos and destruction. The President confirmed that Egypt exerts utmost efforts to promote peaceful political dialogue in Sudan and ceasefire as well as protect civilians from the humanitarian repercussions of the conflict.

The meeting also touched on the Palestinian issue. The President reiterated Egypt’s unwavering position, in this regard, by achieving a just and comprehensive solution that guarantees the rights of the Palestinian people and the establishment of an independent state in accordance with the relevant international references, and therefore opening new prospects for peaceful coexistence, development and prosperity for all peoples of the region. The Speaker of the US House of Representatives expressed that the US administration positively values the Egyptian efforts, in this regard, noting Egypt's active role in maintaining calm between the Israeli and Palestinian sides and pushing for the revitalization of the peace process.

On May 3, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Yemen’s Minister of Defense Lieutenant-General Mohsen al-Daeri, in the presence of Egypt’s Minister of Defense General Mohamed Zaki and Ambassador of Yemen to Cairo.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Counselor Ahmed Fahmy, stated that, during the meeting, President El-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt's full support for Yemen and efforts made to reach a political solution to the crisis. These efforts would help achieve the interests of the brotherly Yemeni people at various levels and overcome all challenges in order to restore security and stability and embark on the path of development.

The Minister of Defense of Yemen expressed appreciation for the historical relations between the two countries and the Egyptian efforts in support of Yemen's stability. He also expressed aspiration to strengthen bilateral joint cooperation, given Egypt's pivotal role to advance Arab solidarity and integration.

On May 6, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with the Chairman of US House of Representatives Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, Mike Turner, who was accompanied by a large delegation of committee members from the Republican and Democratic parties. The meeting was also attended by the Director of the Egyptian General Intelligence Service, Major General Abbas Kamel, and US Charge d'affaires in Egypt John Desrocher.

Spokesperson for the Presidency Counselor Ahmed Fahmy said the meeting confirmed the solid strategic partnership between Egypt and the United States. The US delegation highlighted Egypt's key role as a cornerstone for stability and peace in the region as well as its leading role in combating terrorism, which requires further strengthening cooperation and consultation between the two countries at all levels, in order ward off escalating risks and challenges at the international and regional levels.

The President engaged in an open discussion with the delegationmembers about the crises in the region that threaten the pillars of states, putting the capabilities of peoples at existential risks, and warn of further exacerbation of the humanitarian and economic conditions for millions of people in the region.

The meeting touched on developments of the Palestinian issue. President El-Sisi stressed the importance of resuming negotiations between the Palestinians and Israelis, with the aim of reaching a just and comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian issue, in accordance with the international references. The President referred, in this regard, to the relentless Egyptian efforts, which are being carried out in parallel to maintain calm between the Palestinian and Israeli sides, as well as initiatives for the reconstruction of Gaza. The President confirmed that just and comprehensive peace would open new and broad horizons in the region, in the interest of development and prosperity for all peoples.

The President affirmed Egypt's position on the current developments in Sudan, in terms of the need for a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire, and engagement in a peaceful dialogue that leads to the completion of the transitional path, in a manner that is acceptable to the Sudanese people, spares them humanitarian suffering, and allows them to move forward with  path of stability and development.

On May 9, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received Lieutenant General "Tut Gulwak", Advisor to the President of the Republic of South Sudan for security affairs. The meeting was attended by Major General Abbas Kamel, Head of the General Intelligence.

Lieutenant General Tut Gulwak handed the President a message from President Salva Kiir, on ways to strengthen the distinguished bilateral relations between the two brotherly countries, in addition to reviewing developments in the situation in Sudan, and consulting on efforts to settle the crisis in order to preserve the safety and security of the brotherly Sudanese people.

During the meeting, they highlighted the seriousness of the challenges facing Sudan in this regard at the humanitarian, security and political levels. They also emphasized the importance of encouraging the Sudanese parties to maintain the truce and move to a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire, allowing the delivery of humanitarian aid and relief, and paving the way for launching a constructive dialogue for a solution for disputes and a settlement of the crisis. Consequently, the transitional path and the political process will be maintained in a way that preserves the unity and cohesion of the state, and achieves the aspirations of the Sudanese people and safeguards their supreme interests.

On May 15, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with CEO of the Norwegian Company Scatec ASA, Mr. Terje Pilskog. The meeting was also attended by Prime Minister, Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, and Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Dr. Mohamed Shaker as well as member of the Board of Directors of the company, Mr. Mikkel Tørud, General Manager of the Middle East and North Africa region of the company, Mr. Mohamed Amer, and the Norwegian Ambassador in Cairo, Ms. Hilde Klemetsdal.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Counselor Ahmad Fahmy, stated that the meeting followed-up on Scatec’s growing investments in new and renewable energy, hydrogen and green fuel projects in Egypt. This included the green hydrogen production project in Ain Sokhna, which had already begun production for the first phase, making Egypt the first country in Africa to produce green hydrogen. Other projects included two green ammonia co-production projects, in the Suez Canal economic zone with investments of approximately $6 billion and in Damietta with investments of about $870 million. Another project is the 5 GW wind project, with investments of $5.6 billion over several phases in the coming years, in addition to the "green methanol" joint production project in Damietta, with investments of about $450 million. The meeting also touched on the electrical interconnection project between Egypt and Europe for the export of renewable energy with a capacity of about 3 GW. A memorandum of understanding was earlier signed to begin the studies for the project.

Scatec’s CEO confirmed the Norwegian company‘s commitment to expanding its investments in Egypt in the coming years, in light of the outstanding development of Egypt's infrastructure in various sectors. He stressed that this establishes a solid base for launching industries and investments, particularly in the areas of renewable and green energy. Mr. Pilskog also highlighted the company’s positive and fruitful experience with the investment climate in Egypt, lauding the firm political will they noted as well as the government response, at all levels, to remove any obstacles and challenges in this regard.

The Norwegian side reiterated that this huge Egyptian support to facilitate the business climate is reciprocated with their keenness to exert utmost efforts to increase investment, transfer technology and contribute to the state's intensive efforts to place Egypt on the list of green energy producers and exporters, thus making Egypt a destination and hub for the green refueling for global navigation lines and a regional center for energy production and circulation.

President El-Sisi commended the ongoing cooperation with the Norwegian side in the field of renewable energy and green hydrogen projects, which is rapidly translated into projects on the ground. He added that this reflects the measures undertaken by the State to promote and develop mechanisms for the participation of the private sector and the world's leading companies in development projects, particularly in green energy, in a manner that adds to the size and value of Egypt's exports and enhances the overall capacity of the national economy.

On May 16, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Mauritania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Mauritanians Abroad, Mr. Muhammad Salem Ould Merzoug.

Spokesman for the Presidency, Counselor Ahmad Fahmy, said the Mauritanian Minister of Foreign Affairs handed the President a letter from Mauritanian President Muhammad Ould Ghazouani. In his letter, President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani expressed Mauritania’s huge appreciation for Egypt’s leadership and people and for its leading role, at both the Arab and African levels. He underscored commitment to fostering closer bilateral relations across various fields, and to benefiting from the remarkable developmental experience in Egypt over the past years.

President El-Sisi asked for his greetings to be conveyed to his brother the President of Mauritania. The President confirmed that Egypt looks forward to effectuating frameworks of joint cooperation at various levels, particularly in developmental sectors, where Egyptian companies have gained great expertise over the past years. President El-Sisi also stressed Egypt’s keenness on providing assistance in the development and building of capacities and cadres in Mauritania in all areas.

During the meeting, there was an exchange of views on a number of Arab and regional issues, within the framework of the two countries’ keenness on enhancing and further advancing joint Arab action.

On May 17, 20 23, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi Meets Apache CEO, Mr. John Christmann and his deputies, in the presence of Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Tarek El-Molla.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Counselor Ahmed Fahmy, stated that the meeting followed-up on Apache’s current programs in Egypt and its plans for the coming period to increase its work in the areas of research, exploration and petroleum and gas production. President El-Sisi paid tribute to the company’s outstanding successes in Egypt over the past 30 years. He stressed thatEgypt is committed to providing a climate conducive to attracting and increasing investments in all sectors, particularly petroleum and gas.

The CEO of Apache paid tribute to the positive experience of cooperation with Egypt over the past decades, stressing that it represents a success story and sets an exemplary model in the Middle East region. Mr. Christmann also stressed Apache's commitment to its firm partnership with Egypt, given the availability of many promising opportunities for new discoveries which encourages the company to strengthen its efforts to increase production rates over the coming period. Mr. Christmann also described the role the company plays to serve the Egyptian society in various areas, as part of its social responsibility.

The meeting also discussed ways of strengthening economic cooperation between Egypt and the United States, in light of Mr. Christmann’s chairmanship of the Egyptian-American Business Council and the complex strategic partnership relations between the two countries.

On May 17, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received Italian Minister of Defense, Mr. Guido Crosetto, in the presence of Minister of Defense, General Mohamed Zaki, Italian Chief of Defense, Admiral Giuseppe Dragoni, and Italian Ambassador to Cairo, Michele Quaroni.

The Spokesman for the Presidency stated that the meeting underscored the mutual keenness to continue to strengthen the historical and close ties between the two countries and to advance bilateral cooperation at various levels during the coming period, particularly in the military and security fields. The Italian Minister of Defense commended Egypt's essential role in maintaining stability in the Middle East and the Mediterranean. The meeting also discussed the phenomenon of illegal immigration. It was emphasized that joint efforts should be made to advance mechanisms for addressing cross-border challenges. In this regard, the Italian side praised Egypt's efforts.

The meeting discussed ways of strengthening military cooperation. It was agreed to further develop existing cooperation. In regards to the developments in regional issues, particularly Libya and Sudan, there was consensus on the importance of advancing political solutions to the crises in the region so as to preserve the unity and territorial integrity of States. This is to restore security and stability and to move toward development and prosperity.

President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat in Sharm El-Sheikh.

The Spokesperson for the Presidency, Counselor Ahmed Fahmy, said the meeting focused on the most prominent dossiers on the agenda of the African Union, particularly economic integration, regional integration, peace and security and the Union's institutional reform. There was an agreement on continuing close cooperation and coordination between the two sides in this regard. This comes in light of Egypt’s status as one of the major cornerstones for advancing joint African action, and in an effort to benefit from Egypt's political and developmental role for the service of the African continent in an effective manner.

On May 23, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Chief Executive Officer of the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), Ms Nardos Bekele-Thomas.

The Spokesperson for the Presidency, Counselor Ahmed Fahmy, said the meeting followed-up on the executive position of the priorities of Egypt's current chairmanship of NEPAD, which represents the developmental arm of the African Union, during the period from 2023-2025, particularly with regard to mobilizing financial resources that would enable the implementation of the pioneering continental projects of Africa's development agenda 2063. This is in addition to strengthening efforts exerted to achieve continental integration, particularly the Continental Free Trade Agreement and supporting initiatives aimed at advancing development in Africa, notably in infrastructure projects and industrial transformation.

On May 23, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Secretary General of COMESA Ms. Chileshe Mpundu Kapwepwe in Sharm El-Sheikh.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Counselor Ahmed Fahmy, stated that the meeting followed-up on the implementation of the main objective priorities of the Egypt’s current chairmanship of COMESA. This includes strengthening regional supply chains among COMESA countries, maximizing industrial integration, increasing investment in cross-border infrastructure, interconnection projects, and focusing on cooperation in the areas of digital transformation.

There was agreement on continuing consultation and intensive engagement between the two sides during the coming period to ensure the smooth handover of the COMESA chairmanship from Egypt to Zambia, thereby helping to strengthen ongoing efforts to achieve regional integration and contribute to achieving the goals of the COMESA member states.

On May 28, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received the Head of the Iraqi Wisdom Movement, Ammar Al-Hakim, in the presence of Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry, Director of the Egyptian General Intelligence Service Major General Abbas Kamel, and Iraqi Ambassador to Egypt Ahmed Al-Dulaimi.

Spokesperson for the Presidency Counselor Ahmed Fahmy said President El-Sisi confirmed valuing the deep and close relations between Egypt and Iraq at the official and popular levels, and Egypt's keenness on the safety, security and stability of Iraq, as well as supporting its efforts to achieve advancement, development and progress, within the framework of Egypt's constant interest in efforts that achieve the interest of Iraq its people. The President valued the constructive role played by Ammar Al-Hakim in maintaining stability and balance in Iraq.

The head of the Iraqi Wisdom Movement expressed his deep appreciation for the model of wise leadership that the President represents at the local, regional and international levels, as well as Egypt's role as a key cornerstone for maintaining stability in the Islamic and Arab region as a whole. He stressed that Iraq looked forward to further strengthening the close historical relations between the two countries, which are based on solidarity and fraternity, and expressed his country's appreciation for Egypt’s effort in supporting Iraq, and his country's keenness to benefit from Egypt’s developmental experiences in all fields.

The meeting reviewed the Iraqi political scene and touched on the main regional developments of common interest.

On May 28, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with the members of the Board of Trustees of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina (BA), which includes a number of prominent international figures as well as renowned Egyptian and foreign scholars and thinkers. This includes; Dr. Magdy Yacoub, former Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations Miguel Moratinos, Dr. Mofid Shehab, former Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs and Culture Mohammed bin Issa, former President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities Shaikha Mai Bint Mohammed Al-Khalifa, Engineer Hani Azar, former Kenyan Minister of Culture Amina Mohammed, former chairperson of the Convention People's Party in Ghana Samia Nkrumah and Dr. Mohamed Salmawi.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Counselor Ahmed Fahmy, said the Director of Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Dr. Ahmed Zayed, expressed appreciation for President El-Sisi’s unlimited support to the Library of Alexandria, believing in its role in producing knowledge and consolidating the values of science and culture, not only at the local level but also at the Arab, African, Mediterranean and international levels. In this regard, he reviewed the Library's efforts over the past period in carrying out its mission and outlined future plans to deepen its role and increase its cultural influence.

The President was keen to listen to the views and thoughts of the members of the Board of Trustees, who noted that the Library stands as a unique case at the cultural level, reflecting Egypt's role as a historical enlightenment hub for the convergence and interaction between East, West, North and South. They expressed their deep honor to be on the Board of Trustees of this distinguished edifice and affirmed their intention to exert utmost effort to create a strong momentum within the scope of the Library’s work and influence during the next stage.

The President valued the efforts of the Library of Alexandria to disseminate knowledge, noting that they complement the State's efforts to build bridges between nations and civilizations as well as affirming the concepts of pluralism, peace, dialogue, understanding and respect for the cultures of all peoples. The President confirmed the State's full support, as well as his personal support, for the Library and its important role, noting the importance of continuous innovation in its frameworks and methods of work, and its support for new research programs and innovative patterns of education, as well as stimulating young people's abilities and developing their creative skills. This is while working to expanding the role of the library in this regard, to include supporting creativity and innovation at the national, regional and global levels.

On May 29, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, in the presence of Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sameh Shoukry.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Counselor Ahmed Fahmy, said the President expressed that he valued Egypt's decades-long cooperation with UNHCR and the efforts it exerts at the international level, in light of the mounting global refugee crisis. President El-Sisi also stressed the importance of addressing the issue of refugees and all forms of displacement through a comprehensive approach that targets the root causes of crises related to conflict resolution challenges, as well as realizing security and political stability and comprehensive sustainable development.

Mr.Grandi confirmed the UNHCR’s interest to strengthen cooperation with Egypt, noting its key role at the regional and international levels. He expressed the UNHCR's appreciation for Egypt's efforts to host large numbers of refugees from different nationalities and referred to his visit to the crossings on the Egyptian-Sudanese border, during which he saw the tremendous effort of the relevant Egyptian authorities,  in cooperation with the UN organizations and the Egyptian Red Crescent, to assist the Sudanese people and different nationalities, stressing that the international community and donors must help refugee-hosting countries that are affected by human displacement situations.

The meeting also touched on ways to enhance cooperation between Egypt and the UNHCR, in light of the considerable burden borne by Egypt, as a destination for refugees from many countries, who live side by side with the Egyptian people as guests. The meeting reviewed developments pertinent to displacement cases from Sudan in light of the ongoing crisis. The United Nations High Commissioner appreciated Egypt's intensive efforts to help resolve the crisis and restore security and stability in Sudan.

 Participations in summits and meetings

On May 18, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi arrived in Jeddah to participate in the Arab League Summit.

President El-Sisi’s participation at the Arab Summit was part of Egypt’s constant keenness to strengthen and develop relations with Arab States. This keenness is also part of Egypt’s role in strengthening efforts to advance the mechanisms of joint action and unity, for the benefit of all Arab peoples.

President’s activities during the visit:

On May 19, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with the President of Tunisia, Kais Saied, on the sidelines of the Arab League Summit in Jeddah.
President El-Sisi expressed appreciation for the close and historic relations that bind the two countries at the official and popular levels, wishing Tunisia all success under the leadership of President Saied during this important juncture in the history of the Tunisian people. The President said Egypt looked forward to developing  relations between the two countries to a sustainable framework of economic integration and strategic cooperation and Egypt supports all ongoing efforts to pursue Tunisia's development and reform.
Tunisia's President confirmed the deep ties between the two countries and his country's keenness to improve cooperation with Egypt in all areas,as a cornerstone for maintaining regional security and stability and restoring balance to the region. This is in light of Egypt's pivotal importance regionally and internationally. He added that his country looked forward to benefiting from the Egyptian experience in implementing developmental projects  and its efforts to combat terrorism and extremism.
The two presidents exchanged views on a number of regional issues of mutual interest, particularly the situation in Sudan and Libya. The two presidents agreed to intensify coordination and consultation in this regard to advance efforts to resolve existing crises and restore security and stability for Arab peoples.

On May 19, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Prime Minister of Lebanon, Mr. Najib Mikati, on the sidelines of the Arab League Summit in Jeddah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

President El-Sisi valued the special characteristics of relations between Egypt and Lebanon, at both the official and popular levels. The President expressed sincere wishes of success for the Government of Lebanon in conducting its work during this critical period in the history of Lebanon, so as to fulfil the aspirations of the Lebanese people for further progress, security and stability, help surmount the crises facing Lebanon, and undertake the necessary reforms to overcome the current delicate phase. President El-Sisi stressed the importance of upholding the ultimate interest of the Lebanese people.

Mr. Mikati valued the fraternal relations between the two countries, expressing Lebanon’s appreciation for Egypt as a cornerstone for supporting and maintaining stability in Lebanon and the entire Arab region. He commended the Egyptian experience that enhances the priorities of developmental success and is a model to be emulated for the countries of the region.

The meeting addressed ways to strengthen the existing frameworks of bilateral cooperation for the benefit of the two peoples, and views were exchanged with regard to a number of Arab issues.

On May 19, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met in Jeddah with Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman welcomed President El-Sisi and expressed Saudi Arabia's appreciation for Egypt's leadership and people, lauding the close, historical and strong Egyptian-Saudi ties. The Crown Prince affirmed that Saudi Arabia looked forward to further advancing the distinguished relations between the two countries across various fields.

The President expressed his pleasure to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, affirming that Egypt values the historical ties that unite the two brotherly countries and peoples. The President congratulated His Highness the Crown Prince on Saudi Arabia's assumption of the presidency of the Arab Summit in its 32 session, expressing Egypt's wishes and confidence in Saudi Arabia's success in strengthening joint Arab action in the coming period.
The meeting touched on ways to strengthen bilateral relations and sustain the partnership between the two countries, in a way that achieves the common interest and mutual benefit of the two brotherly peoples.

African Development Bank Annual Meetings 

President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi inaugurated the annual meetings of the African Development Bank, which Egypt hosts in Sharm El-Sheikh. The theme of this year’s meetings is “Mobilizing Private Sector Financing for Climate and Green Growth in Africa”.

The opening was attended by a number of African Heads of State and Government, various regional institutions, in addition to finance ministers, governors of Central Banks, representatives of the private sectors, academics, and development partners from the African Development Bank Group’s member states.

President El-Sisi delivered a speech on the occasion, in which he expressed appreciation for the African Development Bank’s vital role in supporting development issues in the African continent, particularly in light of the growing economic challenges at the international level. The President emphasized that Egypt is continuing its support for efforts toward achieving economic development in the African continent’s countries, at both the regional and international levels.

The African Peace and Security Council Summit

On May 27, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi participated via video conference in the African Peace and Security Council Summit to discuss the current crisis in Sudan, in the presence of a number of African heads of state and government, headed by the President of the Republic of Uganda and current Chair of the AU Peace and Security Council, President Yoweri Museveni, in addition to the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Secretary-General of the Arab League, Secretary-General of IGAD and Envoy of the Secretary-General of the United Nations for the Horn of Africa.
The summit focused on discussing de-escation in Sudan, coordination among all parties concerned with the ceasefire, enhancement of humanitarian corridors and return to peaceful dialogue. 
Addressing the summit, President El-Sisi  thanked President Museveni for the initiative to convene this important summit, which is of great value to support Sudan to restore its security and stability. The President stressed the utmost importance of close coordination with neighboring states to solve the crisis in Sudan, as they are the most affected and most keen to end the crisis at the soonest. 
The President stressed that Egypt's efforts to end the current crisis in Sudan complement the various relevant regional tracks, including those of the African Union and Arab League. They are also based on a number of pillars, most notably the need for a comprehensive and sustainable ceasefire and the protection of national institutions in Sudan, which primary safeguard against the threat of collapse, in addition to affirming that the conflict in Sudan involves the Sudanese people, and therefore the regional parties' role is to help them stop it and to achieve consensus on resolving the causes of its eruption.
President El-Sisi emphasized Egypt's respect for the will of the Sudanese people and non-interference in its internal affairs, as well as the need not to allow foreign interventions in its current crisis. The President reaffirmed Egypt's continued efforts to end the current crisis by supporting the African Union's efforts and all existing mechanisms to end the current conflict, as well as to continue coordination with all partners and relief organizations to provide urgent humanitarian needs for Sudan, to alleviate the deteriorating humanitarian situation.

Interview to the foreign news editor of The Asahi Shimbun, one of Japan's largest and most prestigious newspapers

On May 2, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi gave an interview to the foreign news editor of The Asahi Shimbun, one of Japan's largest and most prestigious newspapers, on the sidelines of the visit of Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to Egypt from April 29 to May 1.

The interview touched on a number of topics, including the close Egyptian-Japanese relations and cooperation between the two countries in resolving international issues and crises, such as the Russian-Ukrainian crisis and the current regional crises.

President El-Sisi affirmed that Egypt and Japan are committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation across various fields and commended the strong relations between the two countries and their cooperation in the field of development. The President also noted the ongoing coordination between Egypt and Japan, within the framework of Japan’s presidency of the G7, to find solutions and settlements to the current serious international crises, mainly the Russian-Ukrainian crisis in addition to the food, energy and finance crises.  

The President further reiterated Egypt's position on the crises in the region, stressing that Egypt's foreign policy is based on refusing interference in the affairs of states and respecting the principle of sovereignty and the peaceful settlement of disputes. He outlined Egypt's position on developments in the Sudan, explaining Egypt's efforts to achieve and underpin a ceasefire and creating conditions conducive for peaceful dialogue and the completion of the transitional phase, to prevent the Sudanese people from exacerbating humanitarian risks resulting from the conflict.

Phone calls

On May 2, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received a phone call from Kenyan President William Ruto.

the two presidents discussed the latest developments in Sudan. Views were aligned on the need to continue exerting efforts to reach a comprehensive and sustainable ceasefire, while supporting efforts of peaceful dialogue and the resumption of the transitional phase, in order to save the Sudanese people and spare them the grave himanitarian and economic dangers resulting from the conflict, as well as fulfil their aspirations for a safe and stable future and consolidate the path for development.

The call touched on ways to advance bilateral relations across various fields , especially trade and the Egyptian investments in vital sectors in Kenya to support its development endeavours.

The two presidents agreed to continue consultation and coordination in the coming period on issues of common interest, especially strengthening joint African action, in light of the vital role of Egypt and Kenya in this regard.

On May 15, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received a phone call from the President of South Africa,Cyril Ramaphosa.

The two presidents discussed ways to enhance cooperation between Egypt and South Africa in the political, economic and trade fields, within the framework of the two countries' keenness to strengthen the historical and brotherly relations they share, in addition to advancing consultation and coordination on various issues of peace, security and economic development, given the leverage of the two countries to serve African interests as a whole.

They also discussed a number of international developments, especially the Russian-Ukrainian crisis, taking into account its negative repercussions on the economic, food and energy conditions in developing countries in the world, especially in Africa, as well as  developments of the most important regional issues and the files on the agenda of the African Union. This is in light of the leading role of the two countries at the continental level, and the continuous coordination between them in this regard.

On May 15, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi spoke by phone with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to congratulate him on winning the presidential election and being re-elected for a new term.

The Turkish president expressed his appreciation for President El-Sisi's kind gesture. 
The two presidents confirmed the deep historical ties that bind the two countries and peoples and agreed to strengthen relations and cooperation between the two sides. The two presidents decided to immediately start elevating diplomatic relations between the two countries and exchanging ambassadors.

On May 31, 2023, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received a phone call from Director General of the International Monetary Fund, Ms. Kristalina Georgieva.

Ms. Georgieva emphasized the Fund's endeavour to further strengthen consultation and coordination with Egypt to highlight their constructive partnership, taking into account the existing cooperation between the two sides, and commending the intensive government efforts in this regard. The economic and structural objectives achieved under the economic reform program and the resilience shown by the Egyptian economy in the face of the negative repercussions of the global crises were noted.

President El-Sisi emphasized the keenness to continue consultation with the Director of the IMF, based on Egypt's interest in advancing cooperation between it and the IMF, particularly under Egypt's strategic approach to achieving sustainable development in all its economic and social axes by attracting more investment and encouraging the private sector. This is in addition to the positive climate that the partnership with IMF provides for all investors and global financial markets in terms of the performance of the Egyptian economy.