Egyptian army chief of staff, top US general discuss military cooperation, joint exercise

CAIRO – 22 February 2021: Egypt's Armed Forces Chief of Staff Mohamed Farid and head of the US military’s Central Command Kenneth McKenzie discussed in Cairo military cooperation issues and joint exercise between the two countries.

McKenzie and an accompanying delegation have made an official visit to Egypt on Monday. The top US general also met with President Abdel Fattah El Sisi.

McKenzie, during the meeting with Farid, expressed keenness to back the strategic partnership and coordination between the Egyptian and American armed forces.

He also expressed hopes that the coming period witnesses further cooperation in a way that meets the interests of both sides.

Farid and McKenzie discussed a number of issues of mutual concern in the fields of military cooperation and the exchange of expertise between the armed forces of both countries, a statement by the Egyptian military spokesman read.

The meeting discussed regional and international issues and the developments in the region with the aim of consolidating the pillars of security and stability and achieving mutual interests.

Farid and McKenzie also discussed the joint military exercise issue between Egypt and the US, the statement noted.

Farid underscored the deep Egyptian-American relations and expressed appreciation of the partnership between the armies of both countries.

A number of Egyptian military commanders attended the meeting.