French FM keen on developing ties with Egypt

CAIRO – 8 June 2017: President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi met with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian Thursday, where they tackled international efforts to counter terrorism and prospects of bilateral relations between Egypt and France.

Sisi expressed his appreciation for Drian’s efforts to develop Egypt-France relations, especially in the military field, according to a presidential statement.

He emphasized the necessity to pursue coordination between the two states concerning regional and international issues of mutual concern, in order to face ongoing challenges, atop of which is the threat of terrorism.

The French minister expressed his country’s appreciation to the strong relations it has with Egypt and its keenness to develop bilateral ties in all fields.

The meeting also tackled international efforts to confront terrorism and addressed the Libyan situation, the statement read. The two parties agreed to pursue their coordination to support the political path in Libya and help it regain its stability.

In a prior meeting with Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry Thursday morning, Drian stated that his country will not allow any terrorist groups to grow in Libya or to affect the stabilization of Cairo or Paris.