“It’s important to continue US support for Egypt,” FM Shoukry

Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry said on Tuesday that it is important to continue U.S. support for Egypt to curb terrorism and bring peace and stability to the Middle East.

The minister’s comments came during meetings with US Democratic Senator Jeff Merkley and Republican Rep. Jeff Fortenberry, Spokesman for the Foreign Ministry Ahmed Hafez said in a statement.

The meetings reviewed the recent developments in Egypt, as well as security and economic challenges.

They also reaffirmed the importance of Egypt-US strategic relations and mulled ways of activating Egypt Caucus to reflect Egypt’s achievements in the fields of development, economy, energy, alongside women and youth empowerment.

The US military and economic assistance program for Egypt was also mulled, the spokesman said.

The foreign minister stressed the importance of continuing the US support for Egypt in line with the increased challenges faced by the country.

Shoukry also reviewed the Egyptian model in promoting the freedom of religion, as well as the culture of coexistence, tolerance and acceptance of the other to consolidate the principles of citizenship and equality.

The sides also discussed recent regional developments, especially the Syrian, Libyan and Palestinian issues.

Shoukry’s talks with Congressmen were highly positive and showed a mutual desire to achieve greater understanding and rapprochement between Egypt and the United States, the spokesman concluded.

Shoukry also met with chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East, North Africa & Int’l Terrorism Ted Deutch.

Shoukry is also expected to meet with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, where they are expected to discuss a number of issues of mutual concern to both countries.

Pompeo’s last visit to Egypt was in January when he embarked on an eight-country tour focusing issues related to Syria, Iran and Yemen.

Source: Ahram Online & MENA