CAIRO, Aug 2 (KUNA) -- Visiting State Secretary John Kerry on Sunday underscored the momentousness of boosting bilateral ties with Egypt, pointing to the pivotal role the country plays on the regional and international scenes, especially for combating terrorism.
Addressing the opening session of the US-Egypt Strategic Dialogue Kerry co-chaired with his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry in Cairo today, the US chief diplomat stressed Washington's commitment to consolidating bilateral relations.
Kerry pledged that the US would continue to provide Egypt with military support, referring to the recent delivery of a number of F-16 jet fighters to Cairo.
He raised the issue of youth deviating toward violence and terrorism, and reaffirmed US desire to broaden investments in Egypt.
Kerry said his country welcomes" Egyptian President El-Sisi's "steps to improve economic conditions." He reaffirmed support to Egypt's economy saying Washington was ready to cooperate with Cairo for attracting more capital.
According to Kerry, the US invested about USD 2 billion in Egypt last year, 20 percent of the total foreign investments in the country in 2014.
Earlier in the session, Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry said that the Strategic Dialogue constitutes basis for a new chapter in bilateral ties and serves common interests and facing regional challenges and terrorism.
Shoukry expressed hope the dialogue would cement the bilateral relations and mutual cooperation in various sectors, namely the military field "in a manner that contributes to realizing security for the two countries and strengthening regional and international stability." (pick up previous) aff.nsa.msa