Egypt has retained its leading role in Africa, under the leadership of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, Acting Secretary General of the Community of Sahel-Saharan States (CEN-SAD) Ibrahim Sani Abani said.

The secretary general made the remarks on the sidelines of the 5th meeting of defense ministers of CEN-SAD that kicked off Tuesday in the Red Sea resort of Sharm el Sheikh.

Abani said that the gathering aims at sending a message to the world that African countries are capable of and willing to restore peace and security in the region.

He added that the participants will tackle measures aimed at restoring peace in the face of various threats.

Meanwhile, Abani called for opening the borders between the neighboring African countries to facilitate the movement.

Thanking Egypt for hosting the meeting, Abani highlighted the 3,000-year-old civilization of the north African country.

Under Egypt's presidency, more than 27 Arab and African countries and five European countries; France, Italy, Greece, Cyprus and Spain are participating in the meetings. 

A number of regional and international organizations; the UN, the Arab League and the African Union are taking part in the meetings.

Source: MENA