CAIRO, Sept 8, 2018 (MENA) - President Abdel Fattah El Sisi confirmed on Saturday the importance of strategic relations with the US. The remark was made at a meeting with Chairman of the US Central Command Joseph Votel. Attending also was Minister of Defense Colonel General Mohamed Zaki, said Presidential Spokesman Ambassador Bassam Radi. The president also welcomed Bright Star 2018 joint military drills that are held on September 8-20, the spokesman pointed out, noting that the president also reviewed efforts for fighting terrorism. The US commander lauded military relations with Egypt and underlined his country's keenness to upgrade its relations with Egypt in all domains, the spokesman indicated. He also praised efforts exerted by Egypt for fighting terrorism and its role in supporting security and stability in the region, added the spokesman.