CAIRO: The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, expressed in a telephone conversation with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi Brussels’ interest in continuing to advance cooperation with Cairo at various levels.

Egyptian presidential spokesman Bassam Rady said “the call dealt with … strengthening various aspects of bilateral cooperation and working to advance relations and the continuation of joint coordination between Egypt and the EU, in light of the multiple strong ties that unite them.”

He said von der Leyen expressed “appreciation for the strong and distinguished relations between Egypt and the EU, stressing the EU’s desire to continue to advance cooperation with Egypt at various levels, given what Egypt represents as a center of gravity for the region.”

The spokesman added that von der Leyen “praised El-Sisi’s vision to achieve comprehensive development in the country, tireless efforts to combat terrorism, and Egypt’s successful experience in combating illegal immigration.”

Rady pointed out that the two sides “agreed on the necessity of continuing consultation … and intensifying cooperation, whether at the direct bilateral level or in the framework of international forums, with the aim of working to reach political settlements for the various crises in the region.” 

He also said the two agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Middle East, Africa and the eastern Mediterranean, “so that stability can be restored in the region (for) a better future for its people.”