BAGHDAD, May 17 (MENA) - President Abdel Fattah El Sisi and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Shia' al Sudani stressed the immediate need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the delivery of humanitarian aid, considering this the only path to regional security restoration.

They both asserted their firm rejection of any attempts to liquidate the Palestinian cause or forcibly displace Palestinians, reiterating their commitment to the Arab-Islamic plan for the reconstruction of Gaza.

This came during a meeting between the Egyptian and Iraqi leaders on Saturday, on the sidelines of the 34th Arab Summit held in Baghdad.

Presidential spokesperson Mohamed el Shennawy stated that President Sisi expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Sudani for the warm welcome and hospitality accorded to him, appreciating Iraq's efforts in hosting the summit.

He affirmed Egypt's trust in Iraq's leadership in advancing joint Arab work during the upcoming year, given its presidency of the Arab summit, which was appreciated by Sudani who highlighted Egypt's pivotal role in the Arab framework and in light of regional developments.

Shennawy added that the President praised the progress Iraq has made across various sectors. Both sides discussed ways to strengthen cooperation, particularly in the economic and commercial fields, with a focus on infrastructure and energy sectors. They also highlighted the potential role Egyptian companies could play in supporting Iraq's development programs. Also, they expressed eagerness to explore broader horizons for cooperation that would serve the common interests of both peoples.

The official spokesperson explained that the meeting also addressed the latest developments in the region and ways to restore regional stability. Both sides stressed the immediate need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the provision of humanitarian aid, underscoring that this is the only means to restore regional security. They reaffirmed their complete rejection of any attempts to liquidate the Palestinian cause or displace the Palestinian people, while reiterating their commitment to the Arab-Islamic plan for Gaza's reconstruction.

The spokesperson also mentioned that both sides agreed on the importance of preventing the further expansion of the regional conflict, stressing the necessity of restoring stability in Arab countries, respecting their sovereignty, protecting their borders, and safeguarding their lands. (MENA)

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