CAIRO: U.S. Central Commander James Mattise left Egypt yesterday, Tuesday, after meeting with senior officials of the Egyptian armed forces, according to a statement from the U.S. Embassy. The statement added that Mattise met with Field Marshal Hussein Tantawi, Commander in Chief of the Egyptian armed forces and head of Egypt's ruling military council, and Gen. Sami Annan, Chief of Staff of the Egyptian armed forces. During his visit, Matisse expressed condolences "to the people of Egypt and its government for recent losses in lives." He stressed that it is important to continue the strong military relationship between the U.S. and Egypt. "The relationship between the United States and Egypt is of vital importance," he said. He added that he has a deep respect for the efforts exerted by the Egyptian army to maintain law and order. The statement said Mattise discussed a number of regional issues and military cooperation with his Egyptian counterparts. "I've gained more appreciation for the dynamic and complex nature of domestic and international challenges facing Egypt,” he said. “The Egyptian army is a professional army, and I am sure it will continue to support the ongoing political process and to continue with its duties in protecting the homeland." The visit was Mattis' fifth to Egypt since he assumed command of U.S. Central Command 13 months ago.
