Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi met Friday in New York German Chancellor Angela Merkel during the meetings of the UN General Assembly. The two discussed bilateral relations and the latest developments in Egypt, the Egyptian presidency said. Spokesman Alaa Youssef said in a press statement that the Egyptian president praised the role played by German companies in economic development in Egypt, including the speed at which they finish their projects at the highest quality and lowest cost. President El-Sisi also praised the German stance on the international refugees crisis after allowing large numbers to find shelter in the country. For her part, Merkel stated that she was encouraging dialogue and cooperation to reach a solution to the refugees crisis, involving not only Mediterranean countries but also African countries. Youssef added that Merkel praised the level of cooperation and coordination between Egypt and Germany, in politics and economy. The two leaders also discussed the latest regional developments, as well as counter-terrorism efforts. According to the statement, El-Sisi will meet Saturday Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas where they will discuss the latest developments in the Palestinian issue, as well as developments concerning the latest Israeli attack on Al-Aqsa Mosque in East Jerusalem. The Egyptian president will also meet later a number of American businessmen and heads of hedge funds, to discuss investment opportunities in Egypt. He will meet also a number of prominent American figures, including former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger. El-Sisi will also participate in the South-South Cooperation Summit and hold meetings with the presidents of Uruguay and Serbia. source: Ahram Online
