WASHINGTON, Jan. 1 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday spoke by phone with his Egyptian counterpart Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, discussing bilateral ties and regional stability.

The two leaders pledged to strengthen ties, particularly in terms of countering terrorism and regional stability, according to a readout provided by a senior Trump administration official.

They also discussed efforts to advance religious freedom in Egypt, added the official, who was on the condition of anonymity.