'President El-Sisi and I had a constructive meeting. Our discussions focused largely on the situation in the Middle East, not least the dramatic developments in Syria over the past few days. Norway and Egypt agree on the need for a peaceful transition, both for the Syrian people and to maintain stability in the region,' said Prime Minister Støre.

Norway and Egypt are also working closely together to address the situation in Palestine.

'Norway greatly appreciates Egypt's efforts to bring about a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and to ensure that more humanitarian aid reaches the population of Gaza. I thanked President El-Sisi for Egypt's assistance in the evacuation of Norwegian nationals from Gaza last autumn,' said Prime Minister Støre.

Norway and Egypt agree on the need to promote the two-state solution and to work to find a political solution for Palestine. Like Norway, Egypt has provided substantial humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza. Egypt hosted a donor conference for Gaza in Cairo on 2 December.

The two leaders also discussed the humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

'Egypt has taken in a large number of refugees from Sudan and, like Norway, has played an active role in the effort to bring an end to the conflict. I am pleased to say that Norway is increasing its support for Palestinian and Sudanese refugees in Egypt,' said Mr Støre.

Green technology

Egypt has positioned itself ais one of the leading countries of the Middle East and North Africa in the area of renewable energy and production of green fuels. Norway and Egypt have established business cooperation, including in green technology, and cooperation agreements were signed between the Norwegian company Scatec and Egyptian and international partners in connection with today's meeting.

'Many Norwegian companies are providing pioneering Norwegian technology to help Egypt realise its high ambitions for the green transition. Norwegian projects in green hydrogen development in Egypt are paving the way for new solutions that can be used elsewhere as well,' said Mr Støre.

Human rights

Human rights were also discussed during the lunch meeting.

'Norway continues to express its concerns about the human rights situation in Egypt, in particular violations of civil and political rights. There is clearly a willingness to listen to our views and to engage in further dialogue, including on issues relating to human rights,' said Prime Minister Støre.