Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi met with Syria’s new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, for the first time on the sidelines of a summit in Cairo focused on Gaza’s reconstruction. Sharaa, a former rebel leader, seeks support from Arab and Western nations while Sisi’s administration maintains a cautious stance towards the new Syrian leadership.
On Tuesday, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi held a meeting with Syria’s newly appointed president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, during a summit in Cairo focused on the reconstruction of Gaza. This marks the first encounter between the two leaders, with Sharaa attempting to build alliances with both Arab and Western nations following his leadership of the rebel campaign that led to the overthrow of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.
President Sisi’s administration has been known for its stringent measures against Islamist groups in Egypt, which is the most populous nation in the Arab world and holds significant geopolitical influence. Unlike its Gulf counterparts, Egypt has adopted a more cautious stance toward the new Syrian leadership, which has faced criticism from state-run media in Cairo.
Additionally, the Syrian state news agency reported the participation of Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani in the meeting, although no specific details regarding the discussions were disclosed. This initial interaction demonstrates an evolving diplomatic landscape as Egypt navigates its relationship with the new Syrian government.
The meeting between President Sisi and President Sharaa signifies a notable moment in Egyptian-Syrian relations, particularly amid the backdrop of regional tensions and reconstruction efforts for Gaza. Sisi’s cautious approach underscores Egypt’s strategic interests, reflecting a balance between its domestic policies against Islamism and the broader regional dynamics. The involvement of key officials hints at potential future dialogues between the two nations.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
