Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi received Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council President Rashad al-Alimi as part of his first foreign tour since his inauguration, amid efforts to consolidate the cease-fire among conflicting parties and reach a solution that ends the crisis in the war-torn country.

The two sides discussed the latest developments in Yemen and ways to protect maritime security and freedom in the Red Sea. The talks also focused on the importance of enhancing cooperation between the two countries, mainly in infrastructure and energy projects.

In a joint press conference with Alimi, Sisi affirmed his country’s support for Yemen’s unity and stability and Egypt’s support for the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council as part of its efforts to reach a just and sustainable political solution that brings about peace and ends the suffering in the country.

Sisi welcomed once again the extension of the truce in Yemen for an additional two months between the warring parties, which was announced by the United Nations earlier this month. He also called on all parties to fully implement the terms of the agreement. “It is a positive development that can be built upon to start a comprehensive political process in Yemen,” he said.