Visiting US State Secretary John Kerry congratulated Egypt on the imminent opening of the new Suez Canal, planned on Thursday.

During a joint press conference with his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry on Sunday, Kerry described the new canal project as a "great accomplishment" that will have an impact on international trade and cargo exchange.

Meanwhile, Kerry said the US was sorrowful over the assassination of Prosecutor General Hisham Barakat and the attack on the Italian consulate in Cairo and terror operations in Sinai.

Kerry said the attacks were "cowardly" and have nothing to do with courage.

He expressed appreciation for Egypt's recent efforts in fighting violence and terrorism.