Turkish President Erdogan Meets with Egyptian Counterpart el-Sisi to Discuss Gaza War and Bilateral Relations

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi in Ankara, marking the first visit to Turkey since el-Sisi took office. The two leaders discussed the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip and ways to reform relations between their countries.

Relations between Turkey and Egypt have been strained since 2013, when Egyptian army commander el-Sisi announced the ouster of President Mohamed Morsi, a Muslim Brotherhood ally of Turkey. However, diplomatic efforts in 2020 led to a thaw in relations, with the two countries exchanging ambassadorial appointments and Ankara announcing plans to supply armed drones to Cairo.

El-Sisi’s visit to Turkey follows Erdogan’s visit to Cairo in February, which marked a significant step towards rebuilding relations. The two leaders have expressed a desire to increase trade from $10 billion to $15 billion in the near term.

Erdogan and el-Sisi Hold Talks and Sign MoUs

Erdogan greeted el-Sisi at Ankara airport and the two leaders traveled together to the presidential palace for a reception and talks. Erdogan emphasized the importance of strengthening relations with Egypt, particularly in the areas of natural gas and nuclear energy.

The ministers of the two countries signed 18 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) on cooperation in various fields, including energy, defense, tourism, health, agriculture, finance, culture, education, and transport.

Joint Press Conference and Statements

At a joint press conference, Erdogan reiterated Turkey’s and Egypt’s desire to increase annual trade by $5 billion to $15 billion in the next five years. He also emphasized the importance of a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and an end to violence in the West Bank.

El-Sisi stated that the two leaders discussed the situation in Libya, where their countries have differing positions. However, they agreed to consult within their institutions to achieve security and political stability in Libya.

Humanitarian Efforts and Ceasefire Agreement

Turkey has condemned Israel’s actions in the Gaza Strip and has sent thousands of tons of aid to Egypt for the Palestinians. Erdogan praised Cairo’s humanitarian efforts and its role as a negotiator and mediator in negotiations to reach a ceasefire agreement and release hostages.

El-Sisi emphasized the importance of holding presidential and legislative elections in Libya, as well as the withdrawal of illegal foreign forces and mercenaries, to achieve security and stability in the country.