(MENAFN- Daily News Egypt) Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi concluded his European tour with a visit to Ireland, meeting with Irish President Michael Higgins on Wednesday. This visit marked the final stop of his tour, which also included Denmark and Norway.

Presidential Spokesman Mohamed El-Shenawy reported that the meeting between the two leaders focused on the situation in the Middle East, particularly Egypt's efforts to mediate a ceasefire, facilitate the exchange of hostages and detainees, and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip without conditions or obstacles.

El-Shenawy further noted that President Higgins praised Egypt's ongoing and tireless efforts to de-escalate the situation and support the Palestinian cause. In response, President Al-Sisi expressed appreciation for Ireland's positive stance on the Palestinian issue and regional developments, including the conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. Both leaders agreed on the necessity of expanding international recognition of the Palestinian state, in accordance with relevant UN resolutions.

The two presidents also discussed strengthening bilateral relations between Egypt and Ireland. President Al-Sisi emphasized the importance of furthering cooperation across various fields of mutual interest. He particularly underscored the need to increase trade exchanges and investment flows between the two countries by facilitating trade missions.

Additionally, President Al-Sisi highlighted the potential for greater involvement of Irish companies in the Egyptian market, noting the significant opportunities and incentives available across a range of sectors. He also outlined Egypt's ongoing economic reforms, comprehensive development plans, and efforts to attract foreign investments.

At the conclusion of the meeting, President Al-Sisi extended an invitation to President Higgins to visit Egypt and participate in the upcoming opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum.

Earlier, on Tuesday, President Al-Sisi met with Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris. The two leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in the economic sphere. They agreed on taking tangible steps to leverage Irish expertise in sectors such as industry, communications, agriculture, and the environment, aiming to benefit both countries and advance their common interests.

The meeting also addressed Egypt's efforts to enforce a ceasefire and facilitate the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Al-Shenawy emphasized the need to prevent any further escalation or extension of the conflict.

Prime Minister Harris expressed his appreciation for Egypt's longstanding support of the Palestinian cause and its efforts to stabilize the Middle East. For his part, President Al-Sisi commended Ireland's principled stance on the Palestinian issue. Both leaders reiterated that expanding recognition of the Palestinian state, within the framework of the two-state solution, is essential for achieving peace, stability, and progress in the region.

President Al-Sisi also invited Prime Minister Harris to attend the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum.

MENAFN11122024000153011029ID1108983973