Sisi, Macron Hold Phone Talks on Strengthening Bilateral Relations, Regional Developments

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received a phone call on Friday from French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss advancing bilateral relations and reviewing the latest regional developments, particularly the situation in the Gaza Strip, according to a statement from the Egyptian Presidency.

Presidential spokesperson Ambassador Mohamed El-Shenawy said President Sisi expressed his deep appreciation for the qualitative progress in Egyptian-French relations, especially following their elevation to a strategic partnership during Macron’s visit to Cairo in April 2025. The upgraded framework, he noted, has positively contributed to expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.

The two leaders discussed ways to continue strengthening ties between Cairo and Paris, including enhanced political, economic, and investment cooperation. They also reviewed efforts to increase bilateral trade, which has witnessed notable growth in recent months, alongside collaboration in industry, tourism, and transportation.

Regional developments dominated part of the conversation, with a particular focus on the Gaza crisis. President Sisi conveyed Egypt’s appreciation for France’s support of Cairo’s diplomatic efforts, which recently helped secure an agreement to halt the fighting. He stressed the urgent need to consolidate the ceasefire and move toward implementing the second phase of U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace plan.

Sisi also underscored the importance of accelerating the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip and launching immediate early recovery and reconstruction efforts.