Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi convened on Sunday in New York with United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki moon.

Ban welcomed Sisi and praised his wise leadership, said presidential spokesman Alaa Youssef.

The UN chief also congratulated Sisi on the opening of the New Suez Canal, hailing the project as contributing to achieving sustainable development in Egypt.

As Egypt chairs an African committee on climate change, Ban showed trust in Cairo's ability to float the African stance in this regard.

Sisi asserted Egypt will continue its efforts to coordinate the African stand before a UN summit on climate change that will be held in Paris with a view to reaching a balanced stance under which needed support will be provided for the developing countries to combat the global phenomenon, said the spokesman.

The meeting also tackled the latest developments in the Middle East.

Sisi stressed that Egypt will spare no effort to settle the Palestinian issue. He added that Cairo welcomes initiatives that seek comprehensive and just peace in the region.

The president said the Palestinian and Israeli sides should be given enough guarantees to convince them to resume peace negotiations.

He underlined the importance of defusing regional crises, warning of possible repercussions if no solutions are reached.

The president said Egypt receives huge numbers of refugees from Africa and the Arab world, adding that they enjoy same services of its natives.

As for the Libyan crisis, the UN chief praised Egypt's role to resolve it. Sisi said Egypt supports a peaceful solution for the Libyan crisis.

Meanwhile, Ban hailed Sisi's pardon on some imprisoned youths.

Sisi responded that Egypt cherishes the values of democracy and human rights.

Source: MENA