Sisi says Egypt, Hungary to bolster trade, counter-terrorism efforts

Ahram Online , Wednesday 1 Jun 2016

The success of Egypt's President Sisi is in the interests of Hungary, says Prime Minister Viktor Orban

Sisi and Victor Orban
A handout picture released by the Egyptian Presidency shows Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi (R) shaking hands with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban at the Presidential Palace in Cairo on June 1, 2016. (Photo: AFP)

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban agreed during Cairo talks Wednesday to bolster trade cooperation and join forces in the fight against terrorism.

El-Sisi told a nationally televised press conference that the two leaders discussed "recent developments in the Middle East and Europe as well as pressing issues affecting stability and security in the region," mainly in Syria and Libya.

The duo discussed means to bolster mutual ties in all fields and promote economic cooperation and investment. They also discussed fighting terrorism and extremism, and curbing illegal immigration, El-Sisi added.

Orban expressed his country's condolences to Cairo over the recent crash of an EgyptAir passenger jet in the Mediterranean that killed all 66 on board.

He described talks with Sisi as "constructive," saying that the success of the Egyptian president is in the interests of Hungary.

Orban highlighted plans to reinforce counter-terrorism efforts. He said stability in Libya is a pivotal matter for Egypt and the European Union that can only be achieved through a strong army and by cutting off aid to armed factions in the country.

The Hungarian prime minister said that Cairo and Budapest agreed to boost cooperation in water, agriculture and education as well as bolster investment in the energy sector.

Orban is currently in Cairo on a three-day visit that began Tuesday.

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