BAGHDAD, May 17 (MENA) - Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi asserted that Egypt, in coordination with its mediation partners Qatar and the US, continues to exert intensive efforts to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

Addressing the opening session of the 34th Arab Summit in Baghdad, he said "It is with a sense of historical significance that our summit convenes today, as our region grapples with intricate challenges and unprecedented circumstances."

"This moment urgently demands a unified stance and resolute willpower from all of us, leaders and peoples alike. We must stand united in word and deed, in order to safeguard the security of our nations and preserve the rights and resources of our esteemed peoples," the president added.

President Sisi said "It is demonstrably clear to all that the Palestinian cause is navigating one of its gravest and most perilous junctures. For over a year and a half, the Palestinian people have been subjected to systematic atrocities and unspeakable violence, aimed at their obliteration and the annihilation of their presence in the Gaza Strip. The sector has endured widespread devastation unconducive to life, in a deliberate endeavor to forcibly displace its inhabitants under untold horrors of war."

The president conveyed his sincere gratitude and appreciation to Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid, and the brotherly people of Iraq for the generous hospitality, warm reception and gracious sentiments extended to them since their arrival in Baghdad.

"I offer my best wishes for Iraq's complete success in its chairmanship of the current session."

"I would also like to extend gratitude to King Hamad bin Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain and President of the previous session, in recognition of his tireless efforts in support of the causes of our Arab nation and in bolstering joint Arab action." (MORE)
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