President El-Sisi Attends Christmas Celebrations

CAIRO – 6 January 2026: President Abdel Fattah El Sisi participated Tuesday in Christmas celebrations at the Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ in the New Capital.

"Since 2015, we've been celebrating the holiday together. I congratulate the Egyptians, the Christians, His Holiness the Pope, and all the people of the world," El-Sisi said. "Happy New Year, and may God protect us and fill our days with joy and celebration."

The president noted that his first visit to the cathedral was a decade ago.

"In 2015, I had the honor of this visit for the first time and celebrated the love between us," El-Sisi added. "Since then, many events have transpired, some difficult. But because we celebrate together, love each other, and respect each other, we never allow our relationship to be anything but good. We nurture it, preserve it, and cherish it."

Addressing the congregants directly, El-Sisi emphasized national unity.

"There is no 'you' and 'us'; there is only 'us,' one united entity," he said. "I always reiterate that His Holiness the Pope has great respect in my heart for his person. May God protect you all, and I wish you and the whole world a happy year. We pray that 2026 will be a better year for us and for everyone."

Turning his message to the broader nation, the president urged steadfastness.

"To the Egyptians, I say: Never worry, but always stay together," he said. "We must not allow anyone to harm us or our country. Any problem could be resolved, but only if Egypt and its people are safe and sound."

El-Sisi concluded by expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to join the festivities.

"We are always happy when we are with you, and may God make you always happy," he said. "Happy New Year!"

In a message posted to his official social media accounts, El-Sisi extended his sincere congratulations to the people of Egypt and Coptic brothers and sisters.

"I extend to you my sincerest congratulations on the occasion of the glorious Christmas, which embodies the values of love, peace, and loyalty under the flag of our beloved country, with which we move towards a future worthy of the great people of Egypt," the president wrote.

"May you all be well every year, and may Egypt be under God's care and protection."