Egyptian President Abdul-Fattah el-Sisi received on Saturday his Palestinian counterpart, President Mahmoud Abbas, in Cairo where they discussed the latest developments in the Middle East and Palestine, particularly the intra-Palestinian reconciliation.
President Abbas praised Egypt’s efforts and the importance of continuing coordination and contact between both countries. The two leaders also discussed ways to reinforce mutual relations between Palestine and Egypt and their peoples.
In an official statement, Egyptian presidential spokesman Bassam Rady said Sisi stressed to Abbas Egypt’s continued efforts in retrieving Palestinians’ legitimate rights within international accords.
He affirmed Egypt’s efforts with Palestinian sides to achieve national reconciliation, as well as working on overcoming all obstacles which might obstruct achieving the unity of the Palestinians.
Abbas stressed his appreciation of Egyptian efforts in achieving reconciliation between Palestinian factions, adding his keenness to continue consultations and coordination with Egypt on different issues of common interest.
Earlier, President Abbas met with Egyptian journalists and writers at his official residence in Cairo and reviewed recent developments in the region, especially the United State’s recognition of Jerusalem as capital of Israel and moving its embassy to the city.
Abbas stressed that this “will not undermine our right in Jerusalem, nor will it make us give up on any of our national constants and rights or accept the deal of the century,” adding that it will not change the fact that East Jerusalem is the capital of the Palestinian state.
“All doors are closed in the face of the US, unless it goes back on the punitive measures it took against us,” Abbas was quoted by Wafa News Agency-, “and therefore no Palestinian, regardless of his status, is allowed to meet with them.”
The President also indicated that the state is up against three “unbearable situations” referring to the US stance, Israeli positions, and the Muslim Brotherhood.
“What is coming is very dangerous and I will not end my life as a traitor. I do not have weapons to fight with, but I can say no and I have a people who also can say no.”
President Abbas praised the Constitutional Court ruling to dissolve the Legislative Council, whose members received huge salaries every month without doing anything since its functions were suspended following the Hamas split and takeover of power in Gaza in July 2007.
He said the Court has ruled as well to hold elections within six months, warning that if the elections were “not allowed in Jerusalem, I will not agree to any elections.”
President Mahmoud Abbas and his accompanying delegation arrived in Cairo on Friday for an official visit, during which met with his Egyptian counterpart and several officials.
