Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi met with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in Cairo to discuss regional security, international cooperation, and the ongoing crisis in Gaza, according to an Egyptian presidency statement.
During the meeting, al-Sisi stressed the importance of strengthening the role of the United Nations and restoring confidence in the multilateral system through strict adherence to the UN Charter. He reaffirmed Egypt’s backing for the organization’s central role in keeping international peace and security, calling for coordinated global efforts to resolve conflicts through peaceful means.
The Egyptian leader also underlined the need to reform the UN Security Council to reflect current international balances. He reiterated Cairo’s commitment to comprehensive reform alongside stronger representation for African nations.
Al-Sisi praised Guterres for his positions on the Palestinian issue and the necessity of achieving a just and comprehensive settlement.
For his part, Guterres welcomed Egyptian efforts to consolidate the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. He praised Cairo for facilitating the entry of humanitarian aid into the enclave and ensuring supplies reached those in need.
"Lasting peace in the region could not be achieved without a just settlement of the Palestinian issue," Guterres said, adding that it would remain the central matter in the Middle East until a final solution is reached.
The UN chief voiced concern about developments in the occupied West Bank. He urged the international community to assume its responsibilities and halt violations against Palestinians in both Gaza and the West Bank.
The discussions between the two leaders also touched on regional stability. Guterres commended Egypt for its efforts to prevent an escalation in the Gulf region, noting potential opportunities to secure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and address Iran’s nuclear program peacefully.
The talks further covered conflicts in the Horn of Africa, Sudan, and Libya. Both sides stressed the importance of resolving these crises through peaceful means while respecting international law.
The leaders reaffirmed their shared stance on moving forward with comprehensive reform of the UN system, including the Security Council, to ensure it becomes more representative, equitable, and capable of responding to contemporary global challenges.
Guterres arrived in Cairo as part of ongoing diplomatic consultations aimed at de-escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, and supporting diplomatic solutions in cooperation with Egypt and other international partners.
