WASHINGTON, D.C. (Press Release) — U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry spoke with Egyptian Foreign Minister Nabil Fahmy on Tuesday, April 22, to inform him that he is certifying to Congress that Egypt is sustaining the strategic relationship with the United States – including by countering transnational threats such as terrorism and weapons proliferation – and that Egypt is upholding its obligations under the Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty.
“He reaffirmed that Egypt remains, as it has been for decades, an important strategic partner for the United States,” spokesperson Jen Psaki said in a statement distributed to media. “The Secretary noted that he is not yet able to certify that Egypt is taking steps to support a democratic transition.
“He urged Egypt to follow through on its commitment to transition to democracy – including by conducting free, fair, and transparent elections, and easing restrictions on freedom of expression, assembly, and the media – as Egypt will be more secure and prosperous if it respects the universal rights of its citizens.”
U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel meanwhile spokewith Egyptian Minister of Defense Colonel General Sedki Sobhy, telling him of President Obama’s decision to deliver ten Apache helicopters in support of Egypt’s counterterrorism operations in the Sinai. The secretary noted that we believe these new helicopters will help the Egyptian government counter extremists who threaten U.S., Egyptian, and Israeli security. This is one element of the president’s broader efforts to work with partners across the region to build their capacity to counter terrorist threats, and is the United States’ national security interest.
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