Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry discussed boosting bilateral relations with his Slovakian counterpart Miroslav Lajcak on Saturday.
Both ministers also discussed current affairs in the Middle East and counter-terrorism efforts as well as ways to increase Slovakian tourism and investments.
Lajcak said he is willing to agree on double taxation with Egypt.
According to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ahmed Abu Zaid, the Slovakian minister discussed the consequences of the refugee crisis in Europe, and Egypt’s role in addressing this issue.
Shoukry praised Slovakia’s role in supporting Egypt inside the EU, while Lajcak commended Egypt’s role in achieving stability in the region and in counter-terrorism efforts.
Egypt is participating in the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen that was launched nine months ago.
Shoukry said Friday that Egypt’s participation in any international coalition aims to protect Arab national security.
In an interview with the state-owned newspaper Al-Ahram, Shoukry said the Egyptian contribution to the international coalition against terrorism is limited to support and information exchange for the sake of fighting extremism.
The minister added that the idea of creating a united Arab force is still being discussed by Arab nations.
“We are convinced by it, but this does not prevent our participation in other coalitions if they meet Arab or Egyptian national security requirements,” Shoukry said.
Saudi Arabia announced in December the formation of an Islamic coalition against terrorism, comprised of Arab and Muslim countries.
Shoukry said the aim of this initiative is counter-terrorism, whereas the objective of the Arab forces is broader.
Arab countries agreed in March 2015 on Egypt’s suggestion to establish a united Arab force in order to protect Arab national security.
