El-Sisi, Gambia’s Barrow discuss West Africa stability and Sahel security

Ahram Online , Sunday 4 Jan 2026

President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi held a phone call on Saturday with Gambian President Adama Barrow to discuss developments in West Africa and the Sahel region, stressing the need to intensify joint efforts to promote stability and address security challenges.

West Africa

 

During the call, President El-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s strong support for stability in West Africa and the Sahel, ​according to the Egyptian presidency. 

He highlighted the importance of coordinated regional and international efforts to confront ongoing challenges, end conflicts, and fight terrorism, while respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.

The spokesman said the call also reviewed Egypt’s ongoing efforts to help resolve regional crises and enhance counterterrorism cooperation, in a way that supports safeguarding regional security and stability.

On bilateral relations, the two presidents discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between Egypt and Gambia, particularly as the two countries mark 60 years of diplomatic relations this year.

El-Sisi stressed the importance of expanding cooperation in areas of shared interest, especially the economic, development, and education sectors, with both leaders agreeing to move bilateral relations forward.

The call also covered opportunities to increase trade, encourage greater private-sector involvement in economic and commercial cooperation, and expand the activities of Egyptian companies in Gambia, particularly in infrastructure and construction projects.

President Barrow, for his part, praised cooperation in the health sector, welcoming the establishment of an Egyptian medical centre in the Gambian capital, Banjul, and Egypt’s support in this area.

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