Egypt, Japan FMs laud deeply-rooted relations between Cairo, Tokyo

CAIRO – 16 August 2021: Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and his Japanese counterpart Toshimitsu Motegi discussed, Monday several issues of mutual concern, including the regional situations’ updates in Palestinian, Libya and Yemen.

During a joint press conference, Shoukry said that their talks included enhancing joint coordination between the two countries to achieve stability, pointing to the need to rid the world of nuclear weapons, and support Japan's efforts to promote development efforts on the African continent and prepare for the TICAD Summit next year.

 

The two officials also underscored the deeply-rooted relations binding the two countries in all domains.

Speaking to reporters, Shoukry welcomed the visit of the Japanese minister to Cairo, the first stop of his current regional tour.

He said Motegi met President Abdel Fattah El Sisi earlier and discussed boosting bilateral cooperation in the political, economic and cultural domains.

Sisi reiterated Egypt's keenness on enhancing existing cooperation with Japan based on mutual trust and respect.

Shoukry said he held an expanded meeting with his Japanese counterpart on promising opportunities for economic cooperation between the two countries given Egypt's strategic location that allows it to access the Middle East and Africa.

Talks tackled regional issues, including the latest developments in the Palestinian territories and the situation in Syria, Iraq and Yemen.

Shoukry said he discussed with the Japanese official other important issues, including nuclear non-proliferation, Japan's efforts in enhancing development efforts in the African continent and preparations for TICAD meetings.

He expressed appreciation for Japan's efforts in achieving regional and international stability and contribution to Aswan Forum for Sustainable Peace and Development and Cairo Center for Conflict Resolution and Peacekeeping in Africa (CCCPA).

Shoukry congratulated Japan on the successful organization of the Tokyo Olympic Games, hoping of more support from it to help boost Egypt's development march.

The Japanese foreign minister said this is his second trip to Egypt as he visited the country in 2013 when he was serving as deputy foreign minister.

Egypt is a major country in the region and one of the greatest ever civilizations, he said, adding that he was honored to have a meeting with President Sisi, Monday.

He said Egypt and Japan share the same concern over what is going on in Afghanistan and have agreed to step up cooperation so that this issue would not become a source of turbulence in the region.

Motegi urged all bodies concerned to work for restoring peace and security in Afghanistan and protecting civilians and properties there.

He said Egypt is an important connection point between Asia and Africa, adding that his country will maintain close cooperation with Egypt; its long-time friend and partner in the region.