Cairo: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi have declared that the security and stability of the region are a collective responsibility that necessitates closer coordination and deeper cooperation among regional countries to achieve sustainable political solutions addressing the root causes of ongoing crises.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, during a joint press conference held in Cairo, President Erdogan emphasized Turkey’s collaborative work with Egypt on initiatives aimed at achieving peace in the Gaza Strip. He stressed that Turkey remains committed to these efforts in pursuit of lasting peace. Erdogan highlighted the ongoing humanitarian tragedy in Gaza despite the ceasefire and called for intensified international efforts to address the situation.

President Erdogan also stressed the importance of preserving the unity and sovereignty of countries like Syria, Libya, Somalia, and Sudan, reiterating Turkey’s support for Syria’s ongoing transformation. He noted that safeguarding Syria’s territorial integrity and achieving political unity would benefit the entire region. Regarding Libya, Erdogan stated that maintaining Libya’s unity and territorial integrity is a shared objective between Turkey and Egypt, with both nations supporting political processes led by Libyans. He expressed hope for sustainable peace in Sudan following the establishment of a ceasefire and emphasized that diplomatic solutions remain the most appropriate approach to resolving regional issues, including those related to the Iranian nuclear file.

Erdogan called for strengthening comprehensive cooperation between Turkey and Egypt to facilitate sustainable political solutions across the region. He noted that Egypt is Turkey’s largest trading partner in Africa, with both countries aiming to increase bilateral trade volume to $15 billion. Relevant ministries in both nations are working to develop practical plans and improve the investment climate.

President El-Sisi emphasized that the region’s rapid succession of crises and instability highlight the collective responsibility for regional security and stability, which requires enhanced coordination and cooperation among regional states. He stressed the importance of reaching sustainable political solutions based on supporting national institutions, rejecting interference in the internal affairs of states.

El-Sisi discussed recent developments in the Gaza Strip, following successful efforts by Egypt, Turkey, Qatar, and the United States, resulting in the Sharm El-Sheikh Agreement to halt the war. He noted that both sides commended U.S. President Donald Trump’s efforts and agreed on fully implementing the agreement in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2803, including delivering humanitarian aid and preventing renewed escalation.

The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to achieving a two-state solution through the establishment of a Palestinian state in accordance with international legitimacy resolutions. They rejected any attempts to obstruct President Trump’s peace plan and emphasized the need to halt unilateral practices in the occupied territories.

The discussions also addressed the Sudanese crisis, with both leaders agreeing on the need for a humanitarian truce leading to a ceasefire and an inclusive political process. El-Sisi briefed Erdogan on Egypt’s diplomatic efforts to preserve Sudan’s unity and territorial integrity.

Regarding African issues, particularly in the Horn of Africa and the Sahel region, both leaders underscored the importance of safeguarding Somalia’s unity and sovereignty. In Libya, El-Sisi emphasized supporting the UN-led political process and respecting national institutions, with aspirations to end division within the executive authority and hold elections, stressing the necessity of withdrawing foreign forces to preserve Libya’s unity.

The talks also covered developments in Syria, with El-Sisi reiterating Egypt’s support for Syria’s unity and sovereignty and welcoming a recent agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces. El-Sisi concluded by noting the efforts by Egypt and Turkey to reduce regional tensions and advance diplomatic solutions.