Date : 16/01/2013
(With photos)
CAIRO, Jan 16 (KUNA) -- Egyptian President Mohammad Morsi said Wednesday
the strategic partnership between his country and the United States is based
on common interests and mutual respect.
He made the remarks during his meeting with a delegation from the US
Congress led by Senator John S. McCain, according to a statement by the
Presidential Office.
The meeting dealt with the democratic transition in Egypt and the efforts
to enable all segments of the Egyptian society to build consensus on the basic
democratic practices and human rights, the statement said.
The President affirmed commitment to the protection of the principles of
democracy and the freedom of belief, noting that the new constitution of Egypt
enshrined the freedom of believers in the holy faiths to practice their rites
and coexist with each other.
Referring to his comments on the Israeli aggression on Gaza Strip in early
2010, the Egyptian leader said he was "misquoted", highlighting the need to
distinguish between Judaism and violent practices by Israel against the
Palestinian people.
On their part, the US legislators reaffirmed desire to maintain the close
relationship with Egypt, as one of the major countries in the Middle East
region, and support the democratic transition in the country.
Senator McCain said he is looking forward to seeing President Morsi at the
Congress during his coming visit to Washington.
Under the strategic partnership with Egypt, the US Administration is
committed to continue aid to, and invest in, Egypt, McCain told reporters
after the meeting.
He noted that the support to Egypt is linked to the country's progress
towards democratization and protection of human rights. (end)
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