Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi received CIA Director John Ratcliffe, in the presence of Hassan Rashad, head of Egypt’s General Intelligence Service.

According to the Egyptian presidency, the meeting addressed ways to strengthen the strategic relationship between Egypt and the United States. President el-Sisi highlighted the longstanding ties between the two countries and the level of coordination on regional and international issues of mutual concern.

The Egyptian president reviewed developments in the Middle East and reiterated Egypt’s support for diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving regional crises, while emphasising the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Arab states.

The presidency said Ratcliffe praised Egypt’s role in supporting peaceful settlements to regional crises and noted cooperation between the CIA and Egyptian intelligence in security, counter-terrorism, organised crime and cross-border threats.

The discussions also covered Sudan. President el-Sisi reiterated Egypt’s support for Sudan’s unity, stability and national institutions, and referred to Egypt’s involvement in regional and international efforts aimed at ending the conflict, easing humanitarian suffering and supporting a political settlement.

Developments in the Horn of Africa were also discussed, with Egypt reaffirming its support for Somalia’s security, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

According to the Egyptian presidency, the CIA Director expressed appreciation for Egypt’s role in supporting security and stability in Africa and stressed the importance of continued coordination on Sudan, Somalia, the Horn of Africa, maritime security, terrorism, organised crime and other regional and international developments.