Speaking during a rare visit to Israel, the Egyptian foreign minister says Egypt remains a "steadfast and unwavering'' supporter of the two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Sameh Shoukry's trip to Jerusalem Sunday is the first such visit since 2007. After decades of wars followed by a cold peace, Israel has emerged as a discreet ally to Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi.
El-Sissi recently called for the resumption of peace efforts between Israelis and Palestinians.
Egypt, followed by Jordan, are the only Middle Eastern countries to make peace with Israel.
In a press conference with Shoukry, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on the Palestinians "to follow the courageous example of Egypt and Jordan and join us for direct negotiations.''
Shoukry visited Palestinian Mahmoud Abbas in the West Bank last month.
