Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi received a phone call on Saturday from French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss bilateral ties, efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza, and France's forthcoming recognition of a Palestinian state, according to a statement by the Egyptian presidency. Presidential spokesperson Mohamed El-Shennawy said the call reaffirmed the strength of Egypt-France relations and both leaders' commitment to build on the momentum from Macron's recent visit to Cairo—particularly in economic, trade, and investment cooperation. The discussion covered Egypt's ongoing mediation efforts to secure a Gaza ceasefire and facilitate the exchange of hostages and detainees. Both leaders also underscored the urgent need to guarantee the adequate and sustained delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. President Macron expressed France's full support for Egypt's diplomatic efforts, while both leaders stressed the importance of achieving a just and comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian issue based on international legitimacy. Al-Sisi welcomed Macron's recent announcement of France's intention to formally recognise the State of Palestine during the upcoming high-level segment of the UN General Assembly in New York this September. He described the move as consistent with France's longstanding support for the two-state solution, which he affirmed remains the only viable path to lasting peace and stability in the region. The call also addressed Egypt's backing of a joint French-Saudi initiative to hold a high-level international conference on Palestinian peace efforts, scheduled to take place in New York later this month, the statement added.
