Egyptian FM lauds Arab states continuous support

Egyptian Foreign Minister Nabil Fahmy expressed gratitude for several Arab countries, including Kuwait, for their continuous support to his country's plans for reforms and democracy. Speaking at a press conference in the Foreign Ministry, Fahmy said that Egypt was keen on developing itself based on the country's Arab, Islamic, and African roots, adding that his country would surely focus on measures to bring itself back to the regional and international arenas as a key player and strong state. He revealed that the Foreign Ministry was currently working on measures to clarify Egypt's foreign policy, noting that the plan would be devised by experts to formulate the country's external affairs. He affirmed that Egypt would continue to support the Palestinian cause and a free independent state for Palestinians with east Jerusalem as the capital of the future nation, adding that any dealings with Israel would be within the context of the Arab peace initiative. In regards to the Syrian situation, Fahmy said that there were no intentions to declare "Jihad" in Syria, affirming that Egypt was in favor of the Syrian people's desire to decide their own destiny especially in terms of attaining democracy and freedom. Fahmy also touched on the relations with countries such as Iran, Turkey, and Ethiopia, saying that Egypt would continue dialogue with all countries. On relations with the US, the minister affirmed that Egypt, as a key regional state, was of importance to the international community; thus, Cairo's relations with major powers like the US would be based on mutual respect and coordination.