Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and French President Emmanuel Macron officially elevated the relationship between their countries to a strategic partnership during a meeting at Cairo's Ittihadiya Palace on Monday.

The two leaders signed a joint statement formalizing the upgrade in bilateral ties, exchanging signed copies and a firm handshake to mark the occasion.

Following the signing ceremony, the presidents held a one-on-one meeting, which was followed by expanded high-level discussions between Egyptian and French delegations.

These talks paved the way for the signing of multiple agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs), further solidifying cooperation across a range of key sectors.

Among the most prominent deals was a declaration of intent between the Egyptian and French ministries of health, alongside an agreement to establish a French health center in Cairo.

The two sides also committed to implementing a roadmap for the construction of Cairo’s sixth metro line.

 In the field of education, a declaration of intent was signed between the ministries of higher education, along with a memorandum to establish 100 Francophone schools across Egypt.

Additionally, the two nations signed a joint declaration focused on the implementation of priority projects and another confirming four major investment initiatives aimed at deepening economic collaboration.

A joint press conference between President El-Sisi and President Macron was scheduled to follow the signings, offering further insights into the outcomes of the visit.

President Macron arrived in Cairo on Sunday for a three-day official visit.

 In addition to expanding political and economic cooperation, discussions were expected to cover recent developments in Gaza, reflecting the two countries’ shared interest in regional stability.