Egypt, Cyprus elevate relations to strategic partnership

NICOSIA – 24 April 2026: President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides on Friday signed a joint declaration to upgrade relations between Egypt and Cyprus to the level of a strategic partnership.

The move marks a culmination of the longstanding and close historical ties between the two friendly countries and peoples, the Egyptian Presidency said.

The two leaders held talks in Nicosia on the sidelines of a consultative meeting between several Arab and European leaders and top EU officials to discuss regional and international developments in light of the Iranian crisis.

El-Sisi praised Egypt’s cooperation with Cyprus across various fields, stressing the importance of further advancing ties in trade, investment, labor, tourism, and energy.

The two leaders reviewed the latest developments in linking Cypriot natural gas fields to Egyptian infrastructure for domestic use and export from Egypt.

Combating Irregular Migration

In turn, the Cypriot president commended the growing momentum in bilateral relations and praised Egypt’s efforts in combating irregular migration.

Christodoulides called for greater burden-sharing by the European Union in light of Egypt hosting large numbers of refugees.

He also commended the ongoing political consultation with Egypt on regional and international issues in support of regional peace and security.

The talks further addressed regional developments, where El-Sisi outlined Egypt’s efforts to reduce tensions and restore regional stability, particularly in relation to the Iranian file.

Christodoulides expressed appreciation for these efforts, praising Egypt’s role and El-Sisi’s remarks during the EU-regional partners meeting. He also praised Egypt’s regional vision, which he said was highly valued by European leaders during the meeting.

The two leaders also discussed developments in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.

They stressed the need for full implementation of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, the unconditional delivery of humanitarian aid, and the urgent start of reconstruction efforts in the strip.