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18:07 GMT
CAIRO, May 31 (KUNA) -- Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukri has warned against the current escalation in the occupied Palestinian territory and risks of the continued "deadlock" of the peace process that will affect Palestinians' hope in establishing an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Shoukri made the statement on Thursday during a meeting with a visiting US delegation from the Congress, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
The two sides discussed the latest developments in the Middle East region, mainly the Syrian crisis, and prospective of a political solution to situations in Libya as well as challenges facing Egypt's security water, the statement added.
Shoukri affirmed that Egypt expects from the US further support to overcome increased challenges, mainly instability, armed disputes and terrorist organizations in the Middle East, it noted.
He stressed the key role by the Congress in showing a clear image of social, political and economic situations in Egypt.
The minister reviewed Egypt's program in the reform process and the comprehensive development plan in Sinai as well as the army's efforts in countering terrorism, according to the statement.
The delegation affirmed that Egypt is a key strategic partner in the Mideast region to the US, indicating that the US' interest requires promoting and strengthening ties with Egypt, it made clear. (pickup previous)
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