Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi on Sunday met with his Sudanese counterpart Omar Bashir on the sidelines of the 27th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly of Heads of State and Government, which kicked off in Kigali earlier in the day.

Sisi hailed Egyptian-Sudanese distinguished relations and historical links, underlining the importance of holding meetings of the Joint Higher Committee to boost relations between the two countries in all fields.

Presidential spokesman Alaa Yousef said Sisi stressed the importance of continuing efforts to increase trade exchange between the two countries.

The president underlined the importance of continuing work on linking ports and establishing a sustainable maritime transport lines to promote trade between the two countries, the spokesman added.

The president also stressed Egypt's keenness on continuing consultations with Sudan on various regional issues, especially in light of the common challenges faced by the two countries as a result of crises facing Arab and African countries.

Bashir affirmed his country's keenness on developing bilateral cooperation with Egypt at all levels, the spokesman said.

He also expressed his appreciation for Egypt's keenness on coordinating with Sudan, which reflects the depth of historical ties between the two countries, the spokesman added.

Challenges resulting from the current regional situation makes it imperative for the two countries to continue intensive coordination to achieve their common interests, the spokesman quoted Bashir as saying.

The two leaders agreed to hold meetings of the joint higher committee within the coming months and work on good preparation for them to meet the aspirations of the two brotherly peoples.

Source: MENA