Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi received Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto in Cairo on Wednesday. The meeting was attended by General Abdel Majeed Saqr, Minister of Defence and Military Production, and Michele Quaroni, Italian Ambassador to Egypt. Talks focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in military and security fields, in a way that reinforces the strategic nature of Egypt-Italy relations. The leaders underlined the importance of advancing shared interests amid regional and international challenges. The discussions also addressed the situation in the Palestinian territories. Both sides stressed the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza, immediate action to end the humanitarian crisis, and efforts to release hostages and detainees. They called for launching reconstruction efforts and reaffirmed their rejection of any displacement of Palestinians from their land. President Sisi reiterated the importance of implementing the two-state solution and establishing an independent Palestinian state as the only path to lasting peace and regional stability. The meeting also reviewed the latest developments in the Middle East, with both sides agreeing on the importance of supporting peace efforts and promoting security while preserving the sovereignty and territorial integrity of affected countries. President Sisi welcomed Italy's strategic outreach to Africa, aimed at promoting development and joint cooperation. The two sides explored prospects for Egypt's participation in joint projects under this framework. Migration was also on the agenda. The Italian minister commended Egypt's efforts to combat irregular migration, noting that no migrant boats have departed from Egyptian shores towards Europe since 2016. He also highlighted the continued coordination between the relevant authorities in both countries. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
