Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi met Syria’s newly appointed president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, for the first time at a summit in Cairo aimed at Gaza’s reconstruction. Sharaa, an Islamist figure previously associated with al-Qaeda, is seeking wider support since assuming power following the fall of Bashar al-Assad. Sisi has historically cracked down on Islamism, reflecting Cairo’s cautious stance towards the new Syrian leadership.
On Tuesday, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi engaged in a historic meeting with Syria’s new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, during a summit convened to discuss the reconstruction of Gaza. This marks their first face-to-face encounter since Sharaa’s rise to power following a rebel offensive that led to the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.
President Sharaa, known for his Islamist affiliations and a history with al-Qaeda, has been actively seeking diplomatic support from both Arab and Western leaders. Meanwhile, President Sisi’s administration has maintained a firm stance against Islamism in Egypt, discerning the implications of the new Syrian leadership within the context of regional stability.
Cairo’s response to the new Syrian government has been notably measured compared to that of its Gulf counterparts, reflecting its geopolitical considerations. The state-run media in Syria reported that Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani was also present during the discussions, yet the specifics of the meeting’s agenda were not disclosed.
This meeting signifies a pivotal moment in Egyptian-Syrian relations, with implications for regional dynamics, especially in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. As such, it highlights the careful deliberation both leaders must undertake as they navigate their respective national interests in a shifting geopolitical landscape.
In summary, the meeting between President Sisi and President Sharaa represents a crucial development in the relationship between Egypt and Syria. The cautious approach adopted by Cairo indicates a deliberate strategy in response to the evolving political landscape in Syria, while the quest for support by Sharaa underscores the complexities of navigating alliances in the region. The dialogue, though initial, could pave the way for future cooperation amid ongoing challenges.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
