Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Syria’s new President Ahmed al-Sharaa met for the first time in Cairo during a Gaza reconstruction summit. Al-Sharaa, an Islamist leader, seeks support following his role in overthrowing Assad. Sisi has a historical stance against Islamism and adopts a cautious approach towards Syria’s leadership changes. Foreign Minister al-Shibani was also present during the meeting, though details remain scarce.
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi held his first meeting with Syria’s newly appointed president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, on the sidelines of a summit focused on the reconstruction of Gaza. This event took place in Cairo on a Tuesday, marking a notable moment in regional politics amidst ongoing tensions related to Syria’s recent leadership changes.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, an Islamist leader with a history linked to al-Qaeda, has actively sought support from both Arab and Western nations following his pivotal role in the insurgent movement that led to the ousting of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. His leadership is part of ongoing shifts within Syria’s political landscape.
President Sisi, who has maintained a strict stance against Islamist factions within Egypt, emphasized Cairo’s cautious approach to the evolving situation in Syria, particularly concerning the new administration. Notably, the Egyptian leadership’s response contrasts with that of its Gulf allies, who have been more vocally supportive of the Syrian government.
The Syrian state news agency reported that Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani also participated in the meeting; however, further details regarding the discussion agenda remain undisclosed. This interaction reflects ongoing efforts to enhance diplomatic relations and address mutual concerns in the region.
The meeting between Presidents Sisi and al-Sharaa represents a notable thaw in relations amid a complex political landscape in Syria. While al-Sharaa seeks alliances following his recent ascendancy, Sisi’s cautious approach reflects Egypt’s historical stance on Islamist movements. This dialogue signifies an essential first step in addressing the broader implications of Syria’s ongoing political changes and their impact on regional stability.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
