UK minister visits Egypt amid concerns over reforms
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
London, July 28, IRNA -- Britain's Minister for the Middle East and North Africa, Alistair Burt, is in Cairo for a two-day visit to offer the UK government's support for Egypt amid concerns that reforms are being thwarted.
“I am pleased to be in Egypt at this important time. The historic events we witnessed in Tahrir Square in February have ushered in a period of extraordinary opportunity for the Egyptian people,” Burt said.
“It is crucial that this is seized and there is fundamental reform. But this will take time and there are significant obstacles to overcome, not least those posed by Egypt’s economy,” he said.
During his visit, Burt is meeting the Minister for Foreign Affairs Mohamed Kamel Amro as well as senior officials in the Arab League. He will also be holding talks with the Grand Imam of Al Azhar and representatives of the main political parties.
The British Foreign Office mentioned that he was also meeting members of the Egyptian business community, saying the UK and Egypt already have a “strong trade and investment relationship, with the UK being the largest single foreign direct investor in Egypt.”
Speaking on his arrival, the British minister was quoted saying the UK stands ready to support Egypt in this “challenging time, especially through the Arab Partnership” in which the UK has pledged to help create the building blocks of democratic societies.
“I am pleased to announce that through this, the British Council will be working to support the Egyptian government’s ambition to help Egypt become a centre of excellence in English language teaching and learning,” he said referring to the UK committing over £1.2 million this year.
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