Sisi, German Interior Minister discuss bilateral relations

CAIRO - 12 June 2017: President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations in the field of security and counterterrorism with the German Minister of Interior, Thomas De Maizière in Berlin on Monday, according to the Presidential spokesperson Alaa Youssef.

During the meeting, Sisi stressed the importance of “strengthening bilateral relations in order to counter terrorism,” that has sprawled not only in the Middle East but the whole world, highlighting Egypt’s efforts on all levels, including “ideological confrontation and standing up to attempts to disrupt national unity.”

On his part, De Maizière praised the relations between the two countries, pointing out the notable role of Egypt in combating terrorism and reinforcing the stability in the region, while stressing his country’s keenness to provide support for Egypt.

Both leaders cited the security cooperation agreement, which the two countries signed last June in Berlin, and its mechanisms for cooperation to combat terrorism and illegal immigration. Sisi expressed his hopes that this agreement will open the door for “developed partnership between the two countries in the fields of security.”

The Egyptian President’s visit to Berlin came in response to Angela Merkel’s invitation, to participate in the G20 African mini-summit which is held in Berlin, under the theme “Investing in a Common Future,” to enhance cooperation between the African countries and the G20 in various developmental fields. Sisi is also set to meet with a number of high-ranking German officials.