Mahlab meets Liberian president in Johannesburg

Prime Minister Ibrahim Mahlab met Sunday with Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf on the sidelines of the 25th African Union summit in the South African capital.

Mahlab invited the Liberian leader to attend the inauguration of the new Suez Canal project, which she welcomed.

He congratulated Liberia for its success in containing the outbreak of Ebola and declaring the country Ebola-free in May.

Mahlab pointed out to the medical aid Egypt had offered to Liberia and its support during the country's recovery from the epidemic's repercussions.

Egypt is willing to offer assistance to Liberia to rehabilitate its health and economic sectors.

Mahlab said he was looking forward to setting a date for the convention of the Egyptian-Liberian committee to push forward economic and trade ties.

He also said Egypt hopes that the Liberian government eases measures for Egyptian companies planning to enter the Liberian market.

He appreciated Liberia's support for the Egyptian bid for a non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council.