(AFP PHOTO / HO / EGYPTIAN PRESIDENCY)
A delegation of 15 members of British Parliament visited Sunday with Minister of Foreign Affairs for the second time since May to discuss regional issues such as security and “rising phenomenon” of terrorism and to strengthen ties between the countries.
According to a statement released by the Foreign Ministry, Fahmy explained the ongoing steps of the Egyptian post-Morsi Roadmap as well as his “keenness [for] full restoration of [Egypt’s] role, especially in the surrounding Arab, African regions”. Fahmy stressed Egyptians sought to “build a model for a real democratic and [state], stressing several principles governing the Egyptian foreign policy.”
The principals included “mutual respect and non-interference in the internal affairs of states and gains for all without harm the interests of any party”, working “to maximise the Egyptian national interests and work to maintain the unity of the state of Arab nationalism” as well as opposition to partition along ethnic and sectarian lines.
Fahmy told his British visitors that international efforts were needed to stem the tide of terrorism, and that within Egypt’s borders terrorism will fought “firmly within the framework of the law”.
Fahmy also spoke to the delegation about the ongoing violence in Libya and the need for a two-state solution in the occupied Palestinian territories.
The visiting British delegation also congratulated President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi on his recent win in Egypt’s second presidential elections in as many years.
The delegation is headed by Conservative Party MP Bob Walter, who chairs the Friends of Egypt parliamentary group. Although the UK delegation consists of representatives from the lower and upper chambers of parliament, it does not represent the UK government. The group met Saturday with President Al-Sisi.
