HM king, Egyptian president hold talks

Cairo, June 8 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa today held talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi at Al-Ittihadiya Palace. They reviewed strong fraternal relations and ways of bolstering joint ties in all fields, stressing the need to coordinate stances regarding the latest regional developments. The two leaders then held a session of talks, which was attended by the delegations of the two countries. HM the King thanked President Al-Sisi for the warm welcome and genuine hospitality, taking pride in the deep-rooted historic relations binding Bahrain and Egypt. He underlined joint keenness on expanding cooperation and stepping up coordination on dealing with all issues, stressing the necessity of protecting the pan-Arab security from any regional or international threats. HM the King commended Egypt’s stances, led by President Al-Sisi, in support of Bahrain and its people. He reiterated Bahrain’s support to Egypt in combating the scourge of terrorism, hailing its strategic role in maintaining regional security and stability and seeking the settlement of crises unfolding in the region. “Egyptian will always remain the cornerstone of Arab and regional security and a strong bulwark that defends the Arab nation and champions its causes”, He said, adding that Egypt will always be a source of strength. He commended Egypt for joining the collective decision to sever diplomatic relations with Qatar which remained adamant on pursuing its hostile policy towards Egypt, Bahrain and other Arab countries. “The decision to sever diplomatic ties came after the failure of all attempts to make Doha stop aiding and abetting terrorist organisations”, HM the King said. He deplored Qatar’s persistent interference in the internal affairs of Egypt, Bahrain and other Arab countries, in a manner that subverts their security and stability, endangers pan-Arab security and unity. He commended Egypt’s stance which, he said, reflects its keenness on bolstering Arab solidarity and siding with Arab countries to stave off threats to their security and stability. He urged solidarity for Arab countries to preserve their unity and strength in confronting all challenges and threats as the Arab region goes through a critical phase of its history. President Al-Sisi welcomed HM the King, stressing consultation and coordination between the two countries regarding all issues. He took pride in the strong fraternal relations and joint cooperation, hailing Bahrain’s role and dedicated efforts to bolster pan-Arab action. “The security of Bahrain and the Arabian Gulf is an integral part of Egypt’s security”, he said. President Al-Sisi hosted an Ifar banquet in honour of HM the King marking his visit to Egypt. AHN