French Amb: France supports Egypt’s anti-terrorism fight

CAIRO –13 July 2017: France supports Egypt in its fight against terrorism and works to enhance bilateral cooperation to combat extremism, French Ambassador to Cairo, Stephane Routier, said in press statements Wednesday.

In a press conference held at the French Consulate in Alexandria, Routier praised the joint naval training between Egypt and France. He stressed that the military cooperation between the two countries aims to combat terrorism and preserve the security of the region.

Routier said that Egypt's stability and strength is a guarantee for France, Europe and the region because, “it is the cornerstone of security in the Middle East region,” adding that his country seeks to strengthen cooperation with Cairo in different fields.

He also condemned the recent terrorist attack in Egypt, stressing that his country is working to strengthen cooperation with Egypt to counter terrorism and extremism.

The ambassador states that the volume of trade between Egypt and France reached two billion Euros, while the volume of investment reached four billion Euros.

He pointed out that there are efforts and meetings between the two parties to increase the investments in the upcoming period.

He further highlighted economic measures carried out by the Egyptian government to improve the economy under a program of reforms with the International Monetary Fund.

Routier also described the reform path adopted by President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi as, “difficult and courageous measures.” During the conference, Routier stated that he cooperated with the French Chamber of Commerce in Egypt and French businessmen to encourage investment in Egypt.