On October 28, 2025, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi welcomed Coptic Orthodox Patriarch Tawadros II of Alexandria and all Africa, along with a delegation from the World Council of Churches (WCC), led by General Secretary Rev. Dr. Jerry Pillay, in Cairo, as reported on the WCC website.

President el-Sisi congratulated the guests on the successful conclusion of the Sixth World Conference on Faith and Church Unity, held from October 24 to 28 at the Logos Center in Wadi el-Natroun under the auspices of the Coptic Orthodox Church. This event marks the first gathering of such a level in Africa and Asia since the establishment of the WCC in 1927.

During the discussions with the religious leaders, President el-Sisi outlined Egypt's efforts to end the war in Gaza, including a proposed peace summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, and urged the World Council of Churches to support initiatives for conflict resolution and the reconstruction of the devastated region.

The WCC delegation expressed gratitude to the Egyptian president for his personal role in mediation initiatives and emphasized that the global community views Egypt as an example of responsible leadership. They thanked the country for its humanitarian aid to Sudan and the reception of over five million Sudanese refugees, as well as for providing shelter to ten million foreigners affected by wars. Participants also highlighted the high level of religious freedom in Egypt and expressed admiration for the president's annual tradition of visiting the Coptic Cathedral during the Christmas celebration.

It is noteworthy that earlier this week, the Sixth World Conference of the WCC on Faith and Church Unity took place in Wadi el-Natroun, attended by representatives from numerous Christian denominations. Patriarch Tawadros II spoke at the opening and engaged in a series of meetings with participants. The conference concluded with a closing ceremony on October 28. In his concluding address, Patriarch Tawadros reminded attendees that the Church today is called to bear witness to Christ as it did during the First Council of Nicaea. “This assembly unites us in the spirit of Nicaea — the spirit of faith, reflection, and love among all churches,” he stated.

General Secretary Jerry Pillay emphasized that the goal of the ecumenical movement is not to remain limited to discussions but to “reach church pews,” translating words into action. Conference participants adopted an “Ecumenical Affirmation” and a “Call to All Christians,” pledging to continue collaboration aimed at strengthening church unity and serving peace.