Doha, Qatar: In a significant diplomatic engagement, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi visited Doha on April 13-14, 2025, to strengthen the historic ties between Qatar and Egypt. The discussions between El-Sisi and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani were characterized by a spirit of brotherhood and mutual understanding, reflecting the depth of their bilateral relations.
The agenda was comprehensive, focusing on enhancing cooperation across various sectors to promote shared interests and pave the way for deeper integration and partnership. A key highlight of the talks was the emphasis on boosting economic collaboration, with both leaders agreeing to foster investment and economic exchange. Qatar committed to a substantial package of direct investments totaling USD 7.5 billion in Egypt, aimed at supporting sustainable economic development for both nations.
"This investment reflects the political will of our two countries and is a testament to our commitment to enhancing our economic partnership," El-Sisi stated during the meeting.
In addition to economic matters, the leaders reiterated their firm stance on the Palestinian cause, affirming its centrality to Arab interests. They underscored the right of the Palestinian people to establish an independent state based on the June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. This commitment aligns with international resolutions and peace initiatives aimed at resolving the longstanding conflict.
Both leaders expressed their support for the Gaza reconstruction plan and voiced hopes for an international conference to be hosted by Egypt, aimed at coordinating humanitarian and development efforts to improve living conditions for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by a renewed Israeli military offensive, was a significant concern.
"The continued escalation in the Gaza Strip is alarming, and we must work together to achieve an immediate and sustainable ceasefire," Sheikh Tamim emphasized, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Since March 2, 2025, Israeli authorities have closed Gaza’s crossings, blocking essential supplies and humanitarian aid from reaching the enclave. This blockade has severely impacted the already dire conditions, with nearly 51,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, reported killed since October 2023 due to ongoing violence.
El-Sisi and Sheikh Tamim discussed the need to secure sufficient aid flows for the Palestinian population and stressed the importance of joint efforts to alleviate their suffering. They condemned the displacement of Palestinians from their land and expressed their commitment to supporting Palestinian national reconciliation and unity.
The leaders also expressed grave concerns regarding the ongoing armed conflict in Sudan, calling for an immediate cessation of military operations and a return to national dialogue to preserve the country's unity and sovereignty.
In their discussions, El-Sisi and Sheikh Tamim embraced the continuation of indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran, supporting peaceful efforts aimed at reducing regional tensions and enhancing stability. They commended the diplomatic initiatives by Oman in this regard.
Furthermore, Qatar expressed its support for Dr. Khaled El Enany of Egypt in his bid for the position of Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), recognizing his academic and cultural contributions.
As the two nations look to the future, they stressed the importance of building upon the progress made in their bilateral relations, aiming for broader cooperation within a framework of mutual respect and shared vision for peace and prosperity.
The discussions also touched on the need for regional and international efforts to calm tensions and achieve peaceful solutions, particularly through mediation efforts in partnership with the United States. Both leaders condemned any attempts to undermine the negotiation process or target mediators, which could jeopardize peace initiatives.
As the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains critical, the international community watches closely, awaiting further developments from this pivotal meeting between two influential Arab leaders.
In summary, the official visit by President El-Sisi to Doha signifies a renewed commitment to strengthening ties between Qatar and Egypt, with a focus on economic cooperation and a unified stance on pressing regional issues, particularly the Palestinian cause and the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Sudan.
