Foreign ministry expects no progress in Egypt-Turkey ties

Egyptian-Turkish ties will only witness progress if a significant change from Ankara's side toward the situation in Egypt take place.

The remark was made by Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ahmed Abu Zeid in response to news about mediation between Egypt and Turkey.

During his meeting with reporters on Thursday, Abu Zeid said that he is not aware of any efforts being exerted regarding the strained ties with Turkey due to the latter's interference in Egypt's internal affairs.

Regarding the Islamic ministerial meeting, currently in session in Jeddah, Abu Zeid said that Egypt supports this meeting, which is being held upon Saudi Arabia's request.

He also said that Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry did not attend the meeting due to the current visit of the Chinese president to Egypt.

Deputy Foreign Minister Hamdi Loza is representing Egypt to the meeting, he added.

Asked about Egypt's efforts to free the Middle East of nuclear weapons, Abu Zeid said that Egypt attended the NTP Review Conference, adding that Egypt exerted efforts to activate the decision taken by the Middle East in this respect.

Talking about the Egyptian-Russian ties, Abu Zeid said that the high-level talks were held between the Russian assistant foreign minister and the first deputy of the Russian foreign minister.

The Egyptian-Russian ties are moving in a positive direction, he said, adding that coordination between the two sides are clear in several files.

Concerning the Egyptian-Qatari ties, Abu Zeid said that there is no progress in this file.

Turning to Egypt's chairmanship of counterterrorism committee on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), he said that the committee is following up the implementation of the UNSC resolutions related to terrorism.

He, meanwhile, said that the situation in Libya remains very dangerous and affects the whole region.

Asked about the Egyptian-African ties, Abu Zeid said that 2016 will witness more Egyptian presence in Africa, adding that the foreign minister will embark on several African tours and hold joint committees.

The African file will be on the top of priority of Egypt's foreign ministry, he added.

Source: MENA