CAIRO: Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mohamed al-Orabi, said Egypt officially recognizes the Republic of South Sudan after the arrival of the Egyptian delegation participating in the celebrations of the declaration of the new nation in Juba. The Egyptian delegation participated in the celebrations, lead by Deputy Prime Minister, Dr. Yahya Jamal, and accompanied by the Ministers of Electricity and Energy and Foreign Affairs. Each handed a letter formally recognizing the Republic of South Sudan, confirming Egypt's keenness on supporting and strengthening relations with southern Suda and to continue the Egyptian role in uniting views in order to settle outstanding issues between north and south Sudan. Al-Orabi met with the Secretary General of the UN, Ban Ki-moon, when he recognized Egypt's recognition of South Sudan and discussed with him ways to enhance relations between North and South Sudan and increase efforts to achieve stability and development in various parts of Sudan. He also reviewed aspects of cooperation between Egypt and southern Sudan, which strengthens Egyptian presence in Africa.
