The escalation of tensions in the Middle East, which negatively affects the security and stability of the neighbouring regions, as well as the need for timely measures to de-escalate the conflict and end the hostilities, were discussed today in a telephone conversation between Presidents Rumen Radev and Abdel Fattah al-Sisi of Egypt.

The Bulgarian Head of State highly appreciated Egypt's role as a stabilising factor in the region, as well as the country's consistent actions to curb the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In this regard, Rumen Radev noted Egypt's efforts to resolve a number of humanitarian issues, including the release of the hostages taken hostage by citizens of various countries, among whom are still the Bulgarian citizens - the captain and mate of the ship Galaxy Leader, as well as those taken captive in the Hamas attack on the State of Israel in October last year.

During the session, Radev also highlighted the excellent bilateral relations between Bulgaria and Egypt, as well as this country's aspirations for their further development and deepening in the economic, trade and energy sectors. Rumen Radev extended again his invitation to his Egyptian counterpart to visit Bulgaria.