Gulf support in 2013 was vital for Egypt, says President Sisi

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has emphasized the importance of support from Gulf countries to Egypt in 2013, noting that shipments of oil, wheat, gas, and butane arrived in the country without charge during a period of severe economic hardship.

Speaking in his address, El-Sisi said the aftermath of the 2011 events led to economic contraction and a depletion of reserves, questioning what might have happened to Egypt without the backing of its Gulf neighbors. He added, "If our brothers had not stood by Egypt in 2013, I do not know what the state would have done."

The Egyptian president expressed his gratitude to the Arab countries that supported Egypt, especially Saudi Arabia, and called on the armed forces to salute the Gulf nations in recognition of their supportive stance toward Egypt.

El-Sisi also stressed Egypt's strong commitment to its Gulf neighbors, affirming, "We will not allow harm to come to the security of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf." He said recalling these moments is a gesture of appreciation for Arab support and a reminder to avoid repeating the difficult circumstances Egypt faced.