CAIRO, Dec 9 (MENA) - Egypt continues its efforts to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, facilitate the exchange of hostages and detainees, and ensure the entry of humanitarian aid to the people of the region, President Abdel Fattah El Sisi said Thursday.

During a phone call with President of the European Council António Costa, Sisi stressed that the two-state solution remains the only viable option to achieve peace, stability, and development in the region

The two sides discussed several regional issues of mutual interest, as Sisi warned of the consequences of the ongoing or escalating conflict in the region, potentially leading to a full-scale war.

He emphasized the international community's role, including the European Union, in pressing for an agreement to end the war in Gaza, establish the ceasefire in Lebanon, and restore regional stability.

The president also expressed Egypt's strong rejection of any attempts to liquidate the Palestinian cause or forcibly displace Palestinians.

On Syria, Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering stance, emphasizing the need to preserve Syria's unity, territorial integrity, and the security of its people, while advocating for an inclusive political process.

The president highlighted the importance of the European Union’s support for Egypt in its efforts to ensure regional stability, especially given Egypt's hosting of over nine million foreigners as a result of crises and conflicts in the Middle East.

He noted that Egypt lost approximately $7 billion in 2024 due to reduced revenues from the Suez Canal, affected by security conditions in Bab El-Mandeb.

Sisi congratulated Costa on his recent assumption of office as President of the European Council, expressing Egypt's interest in further strengthening relations with the European Union under his leadership.

He highlighted the growing momentum in cooperation between Egypt and the EU, especially after elevating their relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, stressing the importance of fully implementing all aspects of this partnership.

For his part, the European official expressed deep appreciation for Egypt's pivotal role under Sisi’s leadership, as a cornerstone of regional stability.

He reaffirmed the EU's commitment to maintaining consultations with Egypt and supporting its diligent efforts to uphold regional stability during the current critical period. (MENA)

M S H/S R E