Egyptian media reported that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Sisi and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a summit on the sidelines of the World Cup opening. The discussions between the two presidents came after they met on Sunday for the first time in years in the Qatari capital, Doha, during the opening of the World Cup.
Dr. Tarek Fahmy, a political science professor, commented on the circulated image, explaining that it has a ceremonial and diplomatic aspect, reflecting respect for the host country, Qatar. He noted, "There is no problem between Egypt and Turkey, and a return to relations is possible," emphasizing that the exploratory talks held between the two countries clarified Egypt's demands from Turkey aimed at restoring bilateral relations.
For his part, Dr. Mohamed Al-Adel, head of the Turkish-Arab Institute for Turkish Studies and residing in Ankara, suggested that Erdogan, before going to Qatar, was well aware that President Sisi would be in Doha. He believes that this handshake was not coincidental but also not formally arranged, indicating that there is a willingness on Erdogan's part to meet with President Sisi, especially at such an international occasion away from formalities. He confirmed that this presents an opportunity for both countries to take bolder steps toward restoring relations.
Political expert Fahmy indicated that the handshake between the two presidents carries diplomatic significance and requires a review from the Turkish side to present its credentials to Egypt rather than the opposite. He affirmed that the handshake during the World Cup opening was a positive development, reflecting important implications, noting that the two presidents had previously met at various summits without shaking hands.
Al-Adel remarked that he sees the handshake as a positive beginning and an indicator of Turkey's genuine desire, particularly from Erdogan, to open a new chapter with Egypt, adding that strategic experts in Ankara view this step positively. He acknowledged that while the meeting itself may not have been protocolarily arranged, Erdogan went to Doha knowing that President Sisi was there and was well-prepared to shake hands. This handshake could significantly thaw the icy relationship or psychological barrier between the two leaderships and encourage the concerned ministers, especially from foreign affairs, to move forward in improving relations between the two countries for the benefit of their peoples and regional issues.
