Trump Calls Sisi “Friend of Mine,” Signals Continued Strategic Ties

U.S. President Donald Trump publicly praised his relationship with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, describing the Egyptian leader as “a friend of mine” during a recent press briefing, underscoring the enduring strategic partnership between Washington and Cairo.

Speaking to reporters, Trump highlighted what he characterized as major diplomatic achievements during his administration, particularly in the Middle East. He credited strong personal relationships with regional leaders, including President el-Sisi, as a key factor in advancing stability, security cooperation, and peace initiatives across the region.

Trump pointed to Egypt’s central role in Middle Eastern diplomacy, noting its longstanding influence in regional security, counterterrorism efforts, and mediation. He suggested that close coordination between the United States and Egypt had contributed to reducing tensions and reinforcing peace agreements during his time in office.

The president also indicated that he would welcome the possibility of hosting President el-Sisi and other senior Egyptian officials in Florida in the future, signaling continued openness to high-level dialogue outside formal diplomatic settings. Such remarks reflect the personal diplomacy that often characterized Trump’s foreign policy approach.

Beyond foreign affairs, Trump used the occasion to connect international diplomacy with domestic accomplishments. He cited what he described as progress in revitalizing Washington, D.C., strengthening national security, and reinforcing America’s global standing. According to Trump, effective international partnerships played a critical role in supporting U.S. interests at home and abroad.

U.S.-Egypt relations have historically centered on military cooperation, economic assistance, and regional security coordination. Egypt remains one of Washington’s key partners in the Middle East, particularly in efforts related to counterterrorism, border security, and the stability of neighboring conflict zones.

Trump’s remarks reaffirm the significance he places on personal relationships between world leaders, an approach that, he argues, helped shape some of the most consequential diplomatic outcomes of his presidency.