Egyptian President Emphasizes Necessity of Supporting UN Role in Settling Conflicts Through Peaceful Means

Cairo -- Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi affirmed on Monday the necessity of pooling international efforts to support the role of the United Nations in resolving conflicts through peaceful means. The official spokesperson for the Egyptian Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shenawy, stated in a press release that this came during a meeting held by al-Sisi with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Badr Abdelatty.

The spokesperson added that al-Sisi expressed his appreciation for the efforts undertaken by the Secretary-General during his two terms since 2017 in defending the multilateral action system and preserving the UN’s pivotal role in safeguarding international peace and security, promoting sustainable development, and enhancing the international community’s response to humanitarian challenges.

He noted that al-Sisi commended the Secretary-General’s positions on various issues, particularly regarding the Palestinian cause and the necessity of resolving it in a fair and comprehensive manner, emphasizing Egypt’s commitment to strengthening UN efforts and restoring confidence in the multilateral system, including through adherence to the UN Charter.

According to the statement, al-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s support for maintaining the UN’s central role, which has been reflected in Egypt being among the largest contributors of qualified personnel to peacekeeping operations, as well as hosting dozens of UN offices and agencies. He also stressed the need for reforming the Security Council to reflect international balances, reiterating Egypt’s commitment to comprehensive reform and enhancing the representation of African countries on the Council.

For his part, Guterres praised Egypt’s pivotal role in resolving conflicts and consolidating peace and stability in the Middle East region, noting that Egypt is best positioned to play this role effectively and influentially. He also welcomed Egypt’s fundamental and active role in supporting the rights of the Palestinian people, defending their cause, securing the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, facilitating the entry of humanitarian aid into the Strip, and ensuring its delivery to those entitled to it.

Guterres affirmed that lasting and sustainable peace in the region cannot be achieved without a just resolution to the Palestinian cause, which remains the central issue in the Middle East until a final settlement is reached. He also commended Egyptian efforts aimed at preventing escalation in the Gulf region, pointing to the opportunity to reach understandings that would contribute to ensuring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and addressing the Iranian nuclear file through peaceful means. He expressed his readiness to make all necessary efforts and take appropriate steps to prevent the escalation of tensions or a return to the cycle of conflict. (End) A.S.M. / M.Kh.