El-Sisi and Varhelyi discussed Egyptian-EU ties, Ukraine, Palestine, Libya, Ethiopia’s Renaissance Dam El-Sisi stressed the importance of ending the presence of armed militias and extremist groups in Libya CAIRO: Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Oliver Varhelyi, European commissioner for neighborhood and enlargement, discussed the crises in Libya, Ukraine and Palestine, Ethiopia’s Renaissance Dam, and relations between Cairo and the EU. The presidency said the meeting reviewed “various aspects of the relationship between Egypt and the EU, whether with regard to its political, economic and development dimensions.” It added: “Satisfaction was expressed over the overall developments in institutional cooperation between the two sides, stressing the importance of continuing joint coordination and strengthening mutual dialogue in this regard, to strengthen the friendly relations between them in light of common interests and challenges.” The meeting also dealt with the global economic repercussions of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, especially with regard to energy and food. El-Sisi and Varhelyi discussed ways that Egypt and the EU could coordinate efforts to improve living conditions in the Gaza Strip. They also agreed on the importance of expediting the holding of elections in Libya. El-Sisi stressed the importance of ending the presence of armed militias and extremist groups in Libya as they undermine the chances of achieving stability and peace. He described the Renaissance Dam as an “existential issue for Egypt and its people” given its effect on regional water supplies. He reiterated Cairo’s position that a binding, legal agreement is required on the rules for filling and operating the dam in accordance with international law.