CAIRO – 16 February 2025: President Abdel Fattah El Sisi welcomed on Sunday Ronald Lauder, President of the World Jewish Congress (WJC), to discuss ways to restore stability in the Middle East, according to the Egyptian presidency
The meeting, attended by Head of the General Intelligence Service (GIS) Hassan Rashad, highlighted Egypt's efforts to implement the ceasefire in Gaza, which includes the captive-prisoner exchange, as well as facilitating the entry of humanitarian aid into the enclave.
President Sisi stressed that Cairo is developing a comprehensive plan regarding the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, underscoring the importance of beginning the reconstruction of the strip while ensuring that its residents are not displaced from their land.
Lauder, for his part, expressed anticipation for the Egyptian/Arab proposal regarding Gaza, emphasizing his hopes for peace, which must be realized through a two-state solution.
President Sisi emphasized the need for all parties to act responsibly to ensure the maintenance of the ceasefire, warning that the continuation and expansion of the conflict would harm all parties without exception.
The president highlighted that the establishment of a Palestinian state along the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, represents the only guarantee for achieving permanent peace.
The WJC chief expressed his support for the president’s statements and expressed his commitment to continued consultations with Egypt on various relevant topics, the presidency said.
He commended Egypt's leading role in achieving peace in the Middle East and its wise efforts to enhance stability in the region.
The presidency cited a statement by the WJC chief, which described the meeting with Sisi as excellent and productive.
Lauder affirmed the importance of Egypt and lauded the Egyptian-American relationship as pivotal for regional stability, adding that the WJC supports all efforts to maintain stability and peace in the region.
Lauder’s visit comes amid widespread condemnation regarding US President Donald Trump’s so-called plan to “take over” Gaza and relocate its two million residents to Egypt and Jordan.
Sun, Feb. 16, 2025
