Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi says his country will play a leading role in supporting a peaceful settlement to the conflict in South Sudan.

This came during a meeting with the chairman of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission, the former President of Botswana, Festus Mogae in Cairo on Wednesday.

The Egyptian presidency spokesman, Alaa Youssef, says El-Sisi and Mogae discussed recent developments in South Sudan and regional efforts to bring lasting peace in South Sudan.

Other issues discussed include the IGAD’s proposal for deployment of regional force under the auspices of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan for protection of civilians, Ahram website reported.

Mr. Alaa said President El-Sisi expressed Egypt’s willingness to consult with South Sudan’s government and the African countries at the United Nations Security Council on the proposal to push for a peaceful political solution to the conflict in South Sudan.

The Egyptian presidential spokesman further said, JMEC chairman, Festus Mogae, appreciated Egypt’s efforts to ease the tension between the conflicting parties in South Sudan.

President El-Sisi told Mr. Mogae that Egypt will use its position as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council and its membership in the African Union Peace and Security Council to lobby for lasting peace in South Sudan.

Violence broke out in Juba last month between the bodyguards of President Salva Kiir and those of his former deputy Dr. Riek Machar.

Both sides declared a ceasefire five days later after the death of over 300 soldiers in deadly battles according to government estimates.