El-Sisi noted Egypt's historical significance, which once sheltered the Holy Family, apostles, and prophets, according to a presidential statement.
The president congratulated the delegation on the successful conclusion of the Sixth Assembly of the World Council of Churches, hosted by the Coptic Orthodox Church in Wadi El-Natrun.
He noted that holding this major gathering in Egypt, for the first time in both Africa and Asia since 1927, carries profound symbolism underscoring Egypt’s deep spiritual and historical significance according to a presidential statement.
El-Sisi expressed his deep appreciation for His Holiness Pope Tawadros II and the Egyptian Church’s national and spiritual role.
He, meanwhile, reaffirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to protecting freedom of belief and worship and to fostering dialogue among religious institutions to strengthen mutual understanding, coexistence, and compassion.
The meeting was attended by Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, alongside the WCC delegation led by Secretary-General Jerry Pillay.
President El-Sisi also reviewed Egypt’s ongoing efforts to end the war in Gaza, including hosting the Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit, calling for global faith institutions to support ceasefire efforts and contribute to Gaza’s reconstruction.
WCC delegation expressed deep appreciation for Egypt’s decisive humanitarian and diplomatic role, commending El-Sisi’s personal leadership in halting the war in Gaza, the statement added.
They voiced hope for achieving justice and peace in Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine, and Myanmar, describing the President’s crisis-management approach as “a model for world leaders.”
The delegation also thanked Egypt for its humanitarian response to the Sudanese crisis, noting that the country hosts more than five million Sudanese nationals who enjoy full access to public services like Egyptian citizens.
In response, President El-Sisi highlighted that Egypt currently hosts around ten million people displaced by wars and crises, stressing that Egyptians “open their hearts and homes to all who seek safety and support, without discrimination.”
The delegation further commended the unprecedented climate of religious freedom in Egypt and praised El-Sisi’s annual visit to the Coptic Cathedral to extend Christmas greetings to Egyptian Christians—a gesture they described as a testament to his spirit of unity and respect.
El-Sisi reaffirmed his happiness at sharing national celebrations with Coptic compatriots and his deep appreciation for Pope Tawadros II.
He stressed that religious institutions play an essential role in advancing peace, rejecting extremism, and promoting the universal values of compassion and coexistence.
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