Brussels: President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with King Philippe of Belgium at the Royal Palace in Brussels. The meeting was also attended by Dr. Badr Abdel-Atty, Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration, and Egyptian Expatriates.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the official reception ceremony featured the Royal Guard of Honor in the palace courtyard. King Philippe personally received President El-Sisi and led him to his private office for a commemorative photo. During the meeting, King Philippe expressed appreciation for President El-Sisi's visit, highlighting the deep historical relations between Egypt and Belgium. He noted the significant development in coordination and political consultation in recent years and praised Egypt's efforts in mediating a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, emphasizing its role in regional stability.
President El-Sisi conveyed his gratitude to King Philippe for the warm welcome and acknowledged Belgium's support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, which was evident in Belgium's recognition of the Palestinian State. The discussions also covered regional developments, with both leaders underscoring the importance of resolving crises peacefully to preserve sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
President El-Sisi invited King Philippe to the Grand Egyptian Museum's opening ceremony on November 1st, underscoring the event's significance given the Belgian Royal Family's interest in Egyptian civilization. El-Sisi also expressed a desire to boost tourism from Belgium and increase Belgian investments in Egypt, noting the country's promising potential and investment opportunities.
In response, King Philippe appreciated President El-Sisi's commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation, acknowledging Egypt's crucial role in Middle Eastern and Southern Mediterranean stability. He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between governments to overcome challenges and fulfill the aspirations of both the Egyptian and Belgian peoples.