President Abdel Fattah al Sisi on Thursday took part in the 17th educational seminar organized by the army to mark the 33rd anniversary of Sinai Liberation Day.

Addressing the participants, president Sisi highlighted continued efforts to maintain peace, security and development in the peninsula.

Also, he praised efforts exerted by army and police to eliminate threats imposed by the terrorist groups in Sinai.

"Development in Sinai is a matter of national security," the president said.

During the seminar, Sisi highlighted success of the armed forces in returning a group of Ethiopian nationals who had been kidnapped in Libya, adding, "Egyptians and Ethiopians share the same source of water".

Also, he underscored important role played by Sinai residents who support police and army in defending their lands against terror groups.

Renowned poet Farouk Gweda and preacher Osama el Azhari have also taken the floor to deliver speeches on history of Sinai and religious commitments to fight militants.