Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
In the early hours of Wednesday, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi conducted an inspection visit to the Egyptian Military Academy, located at the state’s strategic command headquarters in the New Administrative Capital. The visit underscored the academy’s evolving role in national development, with President Sisi addressing cadets and faculty, emphasizing a broadened vision for leadership training that extends beyond traditional military confines.
The President was received by Lieutenant General Ashraf Zaher, Director of the Academy. He began his visit by performing the dawn prayer alongside the cadets, followed by a candid and encouraging conversation with the students. During the meeting, he expressed deep appreciation for the leadership, faculty, and students of the academy, noting their commitment to excellence.
In his remarks, President Sisi challenged the traditional phrase often associated with military training institutions, stating: “Egypt is not just a factory for men; it is a factory for everyone, men and women alike, a place where a balanced and capable personality is built, not only for the Armed Forces but for all state institutions.” He stressed that the academy is no longer solely a military incubator but a national platform for developing the skills and character needed across Egypt’s various civil and governmental institutions.
President Sisi pointed out that the academy’s training and education programs are designed by leading university experts to prepare individuals to face modern challenges. He advised the students to make the most of every moment during their time at the academy, encouraging them to pursue both intellectual growth and physical fitness with seriousness and responsibility.
Throughout his visit, the President reiterated that the academy plays a crucial role in shaping a new generation of Egyptians ready to lead with knowledge, resilience, and discipline. He joined the cadets for their morning fitness routine, expressing admiration for their high levels of physical preparedness and self-confidence. Later, he shared breakfast with them, engaging in open dialogue and highlighting the importance of awareness, dedication to learning, and readiness to navigate the complex regional and global environment.
On domestic affairs, President Sisi noted that Egypt enjoys a period of internal stability, crediting transparency and honesty in governance over the past decade for bolstering public trust. He acknowledged the country’s journey through significant security and economic challenges, asserting that Egypt has emerged stronger despite ongoing regional turmoil.
Speaking on economic pressures, the President referenced the impact of the war in Gaza on revenues from the Suez Canal, a vital source of foreign currency. Nonetheless, he affirmed that Egypt’s economic reform trajectory remains intact and called on the Egyptian people to remain united in their efforts to overcome current hardships and sustain development.
President Sisi also addressed the influence of digital platforms, cautioning that social media, while not inherently harmful, can be a double-edged sword. He urged the public to approach such tools wisely, warning against the spread of misinformation and attempts to undermine national morale. He praised the Egyptian people for their increasing awareness and discernment in this area.
On foreign policy, the President underscored the gravity of the regional context since the 2011 uprisings, emphasizing that challenges did not begin with the October 7, 2023, events in Gaza. He highlighted Egypt’s steadfast commitment to principles of non-intervention, respect for sovereignty, and balanced diplomacy. He warned against media-driven efforts to sow discord among Arab nations, reaffirming Egypt’s strong ties with its Arab neighbors and advocating for unity across the region.
Discussing the ongoing crisis in Gaza, President Sisi stated that Egypt has worked tirelessly since 2007 to de-escalate tensions, fully aware that civilians, especially the Palestinian people bear the brunt of any conflict. He described the current level of destruction in Gaza as unprecedented and reiterated Egypt’s commitment to mediating ceasefire efforts, delivering humanitarian aid, and facilitating negotiations for the release of hostages and detainees. He also condemned misinformation campaigns seeking to distort Egypt’s role, stressing the country’s pivotal contribution to regional stability.
At the conclusion of his tour, President Sisi conveyed his best wishes to the students of the academy and extended heartfelt thanks to their families. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by Egyptian families in raising a new generation prepared to serve their country, safeguard its future, and carry its mission forward.
The visit reflected a broader vision of leadership development in Egypt one that merges military discipline, civic responsibility, and intellectual readiness to prepare future leaders capable of steering the nation through the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
