Trump phones Sisi, stresses keenness to overcome 'obstacles'

CAIRO – 25 August 2017: President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi received a phone call late on Thursday from U.S. President Donald Trump who expressed his keenness to develop the relationship between their countries, and overcome any obstacles that might affect it

Trump stressed Egypt's importance as a strategic partner, adding that both countries share deep and friendly ties that should not be affected by any difficulties.

President Sisi expressed his appreciation to Trump for his call and touched on the importance of continuing coordination and consultation between the two countries on all mutual concerns.

Earlier this week, the U.S. has decided to cut nearly $100 million in military and economic aid to Egypt and delayed almost $200 million more in military financing.

“Washington has given Cairo nearly $80 billion in military and economic assistance over the past 30 years and will continue to support Egypt in defeating extremists, fighting terrorism and bolstering its economy,” CNN quoted a U.S. administration official.

The move came as a surprise to many political experts and observers, given the strategic ties between Egypt and U.S.; Trump has repeatedly hailed the Egyptian leader as a key ally in the fight against terrorism.