FM Shoukry discusses terrorism, trade with Bundestag members

CAIRO – 4 July 2018: Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry discussed Egypt’s excessive efforts to fight terrorism with the Egyptian-German Parliamentary Friendship Association Head, Ralf Brauksiepe, during a meeting on Tuesday.

Shoukry and Brauksiepe exchanged information regarding ways to maintain stability and security within the Middle East region, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Ahmed Abu Zeid.


FM Shoukry discusses terrorism, trade with Bundestag members on Tuesday, July 3 – Press Photo



It was added that Shoukry’s meeting with Brauksiepe and other German Bundestag members shed light on several issues of mutual interest, including boosting economic relations in light of the recent Egyptian economic reforms.

The Middle East conflicts, including Syria, Iraq and Yemen wars, were also discussed during the meeting, according to the statement.

Shoukry embarked on a European tour on Tuesday morning. The tour is supposed to include Germany and Austria.


FM Shoukry discusses terrorism, trade with Bundestag members on Tuesday, July 3 – Press Photo


According to a statement issued on Monday, Abu Zeid said that this tour aims to boost relations between Egypt and its European partners, and to enhance coordination with the German and Austrian governments, especially in light of Austria's periodic presidency of the European Union.

Abu Zeid added in his statement that Shoukry’s visit to Germany will last for two days as he is going to meet with several officials from the government and Parliament.

Discussing the development of Egyptian- German relations will be among Shoukry’s priorities during his meetings; the foreign minister will focus on ways to enhance economic cooperation as well as mutual investment and trade exchange.

Abu Zeid explained that the great progress in the Egyptian-German relations comes as a result of the mutual understanding between the two countries' leaders, especially with the German side realizing the importance of coordinating and consulting with Egypt regarding the Middle East constant developments.



FM Shoukry discusses terrorism, trade with Bundestag members on Tuesday, July 3 – Press Photo


As for Austria’s visit, Abu Zeid pointed out that Shoukry is expected to meet with Minister Karin Kneissl. Several issues are expected to be discussed during Shoukry’s meetings in Vienna, including boosting the political, cultural and economic relations between the two countries.

In October 2017, German Ambassador to Egypt Julius Georg Luy highlighted the German vital relations with Egypt, saying that over the past two years, the volume of trade exchange between the two countries ratcheted 30 percent up to stand at €6 billion.
He added during a ceremony held at the embassy's headquarters on Germany's Unity Day that Germany is a key trade partner to Egypt in Europe. Luy assured that German companies contributed to creating 220,000 jobs in Egypt over the past year.