WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump, welcoming Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to the White House on Tuesday, said a lot of progress had been made with Egypt in terms of terrorism.
Trump praised the "great job" he said is being done by El-Sisi, saying: "I think he is doing a great job, We have never had a better relationship between Egypt and United States than we do right now."
Trump, who has warmly embraced the Egyptian president, also told reporters they had important things to discuss about military issues and trade, citing the US' concerns about Egypt's reported signing of a $2 billion deal with Russia to buy more than 20 Sukhoi SU-35 fighter jets.
In a letter released on Monday, key senators told Secretary of State Mike Pompeo there was strong support for the security relationship with Egypt, but also urged him to convey their concerns about necessary "reforms" in the country.
"A strong and sustainable US-Egypt strategic partnership is vital for both countries but it requires Egypt to make a tangible effort to make those reforms," the letter, signed by the Republican chairman and the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee as well as 15 other senators.
More to follow...
