FM Egypt determined to proceed with its democratic process

 Egyptian Foreign Minister Nabil Fahmy said Tuesday his country was determined to proceed with its democratic process, crack down on terrorism and preserving its national security, while rejecting any kind of foreign interference. Egypt "will not accept foreign interference in its sovereign decisions either by the US or Europe or even Italy," Fahmy said in an interview with Italian News Agency (ANSA) at the end of his two-day visit to Rome."We will not retreat," he added in reference to positions of some Western capitals regarding the political roadmap that was approved in the wake of the June 30, 2013. Fahmy expressed satisfaction over bilateral cooperation with Italy in the economic, trade and investment fields. The Egyptian foreign minister met with the ministers of foreign affairs, defense and economic development. He also met with chairpersons of the foreign affairs committees at the House of Representatives and Senate.Fahmy said the officials he met have showed understanding to the situation in Egypt and that the North African country was determined to proceed with its democratic process."we will not take a step backward and security is a top priority," he said.He said the Europeans and Americans should realize that "your security depends on our security, and your success depends on our success." Fahmy said Egypt's relations with the US were progressing. He added Cairo and Washington were determined to overcome the difficulties facing their ties. Fahmy's visit to Rome is the first leg of a tour that includes Germany and the Netherlands.