Egypt’s Sisi Hosts Syria’s Sharaa in Diplomatic Meeting Amid Gaza Reconstruction Talks

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi met with Syria’s new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, for the first time in Cairo during a summit on Gaza’s reconstruction. Sharaa is seeking international support following his role in the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. Egypt maintains a cautious stance towards the new Syrian leadership, contrasting with the responses from Gulf nations.

In a significant diplomatic development, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi convened with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, for their inaugural meeting in Cairo during a summit focused on Gaza’s reconstruction. This encounter marked a critical moment in regional politics as it brought together leaders with historically complex relations.

Ahmed al-Sharaa, previously associated with al Qaeda, has endeavored to secure support from both Arab and Western nations following his leadership of the rebel movement that resulted in the ousting of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. In contrast, President Sisi has maintained a strict stance against Islamist factions in Egypt, a nation recognized for its substantial regional influence and its strategic partnership with the United States.

Cairo’s approach toward the new Syrian administration has been notably tempered when compared to the more aggressive actions of Gulf states, reflecting Egypt’s cautious strategy. Media sources from Syria reported that Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani was also present at the meeting, although further information regarding the discussions was not disclosed.

The meeting between Presidents Sisi and Sharaa signifies a pivotal moment for Egypt-Syria relations amidst ongoing geopolitical challenges. As new leadership emerges in Syria, Egypt’s cautious yet strategic engagement illustrates its careful navigation of complex regional dynamics. The presence of Syrian officials at such discussions underscores the evolving diplomatic landscape in the Middle East.

Original Source: www.usnews.com