Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry headed to the Burundian capital Bujumbura on Tuesday to discuss bilateral relations with officials and ways to strengthen them, as well as to discuss a number of issues of common concern. The visit comes within the framework of Egypt's special interest in supporting and strengthening its relations with Nile Basin countries and the African continent in general, as well as its keenness to give more impetus to the distinguished bilateral relations, the topic of Nile water, and the situation of the African continent. Shoukry will meet with senior officials of the state, headed by President Pierre Nkurunziza. He will also hold talks with the foreign minister and the heads of the two chambers of parliament. In addition, he will take part in launching a number of development projects provided by Egypt to Burundi that will be supported by the Egyptian Agency of Partnership for Development, affiliated with the Egyptian Foreign Ministry. Egypt was the first Arab country to establish diplomatic relations with Burundi, following the latter's independence in 1962, and has provided aid and training for development projects for the Burundian people. It also supported Burundi's security and stability during Egypt's membership in the United Nations Security Council in 2016 and 2017.
