Foreign Office minister visits Cairo to talk reform

FOREIGN OFFICE MINISTER VISITS EGYPT TO DISCUSS REFORM AND UK SUPPORT Minister for the Middle East and North Africa, Alistair Burt, is in Cairo for a two-day visit to Egypt. During his visit Mr Burt will meet the Minister for Foreign Affairs Mohamed Kamel Amro as well as senior officials in the Arab League. He will also meet the Grand Imam of Al Azhar and representatives of the main political parties. During the visit Mr Burt will also meet members of the Egyptian business community. The UK and Egypt already have a strong trade and investment relationship, with the UK being the largest single foreign direct investor in Egypt. Speaking on his arrival, Mr Burt said:"I am pleased to be in Egypt at this important time. The historic events we witnessed in Tahrir Square in February have ushered in a period of extraordinary opportunity for the Egyptian people. It is crucial that this is seized and there is fundamental reform. But this will take time and there are significant obstacles to overcome, not least those posed by Egypt's economy.   "The UK stands ready to support Egypt in this challenging time, especially through the Arab Partnership. I am pleased to announce that through this, the British Council will be working to support the Egyptian government's ambition to help Egypt become a centre of excellence in English language teaching and learning. The UK has committed over £1.2 million this year to this and other work in Egypt".