* The President discussed ongoing Egyptian efforts to reduce tension and prevent sliding into a new wave of escalation, stressing the importance of Iraq continuing to play a constructive role in enhancing the collective security of Arab nations and safeguarding the resources and well-being of the region's peoples

CAIRO, Egypt - Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received the Head of Iraq's National Wisdom Movement, Ammar Al-Hakim.

The meeting was attended by the Director of the General Intelligence Service, Minister Hassan Rashad. From the Iraqi side Deputy Head of the National Wisdom Movement Mohsen Al-Hakim, Advisor to the Head of the National Wisdom Movement Ahmed Al-Hakim and Iraqi Ambassador in Cairo Qahtan Taha Janabi were present.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said the President welcomed the Head of the National Wisdom Movement and emphasized the historic, close relations between Egypt and Iraq and the two peoples. The President affirmed Egypt's interest in engaging with Iraqi state institutions and all political and national forces, in light of the strong bonds both countries share. The President reiterated Egypt's commitment to the security and stability of Iraq and its support for all measures taken by the Iraqi state to safeguard its sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. The President also noted the government's efforts to combat corruption and restrict the possession of arms. Furthermore, the President commended Iraq's pivotal role in the war against terrorism and extremism, as well as its efforts to eradicate their roots. President El-Sisi praised the constructive role played by the Head of Iraq's National Wisdom Movement in fostering stability, narrowing political differences, and upholding Iraq's national interests.

For his part, the Head of Iraq's National Wisdom Movement expressed his deep appreciation for meeting with the President and valued the historic and close ties between Egypt and Iraq, stressing the key role Egypt plays--under the President's leadership--in bolstering regional security and stability. This includes supporting Iraq and its efforts to regain its natural leading position at both the Arab and regional levels. He also affirmed his keenness to consult with the President on regional developments, to gain insight into his vision for de-escalating current geopolitical tensions, and to explore ways to shield Iraq from their negative repercussions.

The meeting addressed the current regional situation and its impact on various countries, particularly Egypt and Iraq. The President outlined the national vision, which prioritizes peaceful solutions to crises and conflicts, supports legitimate institutions, and upholds the concept of an inclusive national state. The President discussed ongoing Egyptian efforts to reduce tension and prevent sliding into a new wave of escalation, stressing the importance of Iraq continuing to play a constructive role in enhancing the collective security of Arab nations and safeguarding the resources and well-being of the region's peoples.

The meeting also covered the latest developments regarding the Palestinian issue. The President reviewed Egypt's efforts to support the Palestinian people--including the implementation of the second phase of the Sharm El-Sheikh Agreement and the US peace plan, as well as the delivery of aid and intensifying humanitarian relief efforts in the Gaza Strip. The President emphasized Egypt's firm stance on the necessity of establishing a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital--in accordance with international legitimacy resolutions--as the sole, comprehensive, and just solution to the Palestinian issue.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.