Egypt’s president, Pakistan’s CJCSC urge expansion of Palestinian state recognition

CAIRO – 30 July 2025: President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) of Pakistan Sahir Shamshad Mirza have emphasized the need to expand recognition of an independent Palestinian state as the true guarantee for achieving lasting peace and stability in the Middle East.

Sisi received Mirza in Egypt on Wednesday, where they discussed Egypt's efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, the Egyptian Presidency said in a statement.

The meeting emphasized the need for the international community to assume its responsibilities in ending the humanitarian suffering of the enclave’s residents and ensure the delivery of necessary aid.

Sisi and Mirza also discussed developments in South Asia and efforts to enhance stability in the region, contributing to the development and prosperity of its friendly peoples.

The meeting addressed ways to enhance cooperation between Egypt and Pakistan, particularly in military and security fields, as well as the exchange of expertise in combating terrorism and extremism.

The CJCSC conveyed the greetings of the prime minister of Pakistan, which Sisi appreciated.

Their discussions regarding the Palestinian cause comes while the war in Gaza has continued for nearly 22 months, resulting in the death of more than 60,000 Palestinians, according to Palestinian health authorities.

To pressure Hamas, Israel has placed heavy restrictions on humanitarian aid deliveries and had even blocked them completely for some months, pushing the enclave toward imminent famine.

Amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis, France and Malta have announced plans to recognize a Palestinian state in September, giving a boost to a two-state solution.

Meanwhile UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that his country would do the same unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire, revives the two-state solution, allows the UN to resume aid supplies, and halts West Bank annexations.

Egypt and Pakistan are among many countries around the world that support a two-state solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict to ensure lasting peace across the Middle East.