Cairo: EgyPulse – News Desk
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met Thursday with His Majesty King Philippe of Belgium at the Royal Palace in Brussels, where they both discussed strengthening bilateral relations and regional stability. According to the Presidential Spokesperson, the official reception featured a Royal Honor Guard in the palace courtyard, where His Majesty King Philippe personally welcomed President El-Sisi and escorted him to his private office for a commemorative photo.
King Philippe began the meeting by welcoming the President and expressing appreciation for his visit, which reflects the deep historical ties between Egypt and Belgium at both the official and popular levels. He praised the progress achieved in political coordination and consultation in recent years, and commended Egypt’s intensive efforts – led by President El-Sisi and in coordination with other mediators – to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. His Majesty emphasized that these efforts serve as a cornerstone for regional stability and peace.
President El-Sisi expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and lauded Belgium’s principled stance and King Philippe’s personal support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, as reflected in Belgium’s recognition of the State of Palestine.
Presidential Spokesperson Ambassador Mohamed El-Shenawy noted that the meeting also addressed regional developments, stressing the importance of resolving crises peacefully while preserving state sovereignty and territorial integrity. President El-Sisi invited King Philippe to attend the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum on November 1, highlighting the deep cultural connections between the Belgian people and Egypt’s ancient civilization. He also expressed hope to expand Belgian tourism to Egypt.
The discussions further underscored the importance of enhancing Belgian investments in Egypt, given the country’s promising opportunities and strong economic potential. King Philippe reaffirmed his appreciation for President El-Sisi’s efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation, emphasizing that the Belgian people value Egypt’s pivotal role in promoting stability in the Middle East and the Southern Mediterranean. He highlighted the importance of joint action to address global challenges and fulfill the shared aspirations of both nations.
