President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi met on Saturday with a delegation of the British Conservative Party that was assigned to follow up on issues of the Middle East. Also attending was Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry, according to the presidency’s spokesperson Alaa Youssef.
Al-Sisi started the meeting by praising the party’s efforts of maintaining its positive relations with Egypt, which was seen through its multiple visits to comprehend the real political, social, and economic conditions and developments Egypt is passing through.
The discussion began with a review of the situation in Egypt, where Al-Sisi explained that “Egypt is currently undergoing a fragile stage, where it is witnessing the implementation of a comprehensive and unprecedented economic reform plan. This plan is put in place to develop radical solutions to the chronic economic and social problems that Egypt faced during the past several decades.”
On this topic, the president necessitated the taking of a sincere and transparent approach with the people, and this would require that the government informs the citizens of the problems and solutions, to allow them to comprehend the consequences of the reform and the heavy burdens it may bring.
He further asserted that all state apparatuses and officials are working on alleviating the pressures on those suffering from the current economic situation, especially those with low incomes.
The members of the British delegation expressed their keenness to boost Egyptian-British relations in all fields. They also expressed their deep awareness of the unparalleled transformation Egypt is currently undergoing.
In response to the delegation’s views, Al-Sisi conveyed his appreciation of British support for Egypt to take the loan from the International Monterey Fund (IMF), confirming Egypt’s aspiration to further advance the cooperation between them.
He also said that Egypt is looking forward to increasing British investments in Egypt and the trade exchange between them.
The meeting also witnessed the discussion of security in the region, as well as other topics.
Regarding regional issues, Al-Sisi reviewed Egypt’s efforts in this regard, confirming its support in fighting terrorism on several fronts.
He explained that Egypt is working on strengthening its military and addressing the intellectual and cultural causes that spawn terrorism and extremism. He further added that an open and tolerant religious discourse can combat terrorism.
Al-Sisi asserted the significance of nations taking a strong stance to stop supplying terrorist groups with arms, money, and fighters.
On their side, members of the British delegation expressed their appreciation of Egypt’s pivotal role in attempting to restore stability in the region, amid the unprecedented turmoil and tension the region is facing. They also praised Egypt’s efforts in fighting terrorism, stressing the need for concerted international efforts to eliminate it completely.
