Prime Minister Ibrahim Mahlab has met with a number of French writers and intellectuals at a luncheon held by the Egyptian ambassador in Paris on the fringe of the premier's current visit to France.

The delegation accompanying the premier attended the meeting. They include Head of Suez Canal Authority Mohab Mamish, Minister of Electricity Mohammad Shaker, Minister of Civil Aviation Hossam Kamal, Minister of Technical Education Mohammad Yousef, Minister of Industry Munir Fakhri Abdel Nour, Minister of Transport Hani Dhahi and Board Chairman of the Egyptian Satellite Company Nilesat Ahmed Anis.

During the meeting, Mahlab reviewed the latest developments in Egypt, steps taken to put into effect the roadmap plan after the success of ratifying the constitution, the presidential elections as well as the preparations for holding a parliamentary elections soon.

He also reviewed the development projects which are currently under construction in the Suez Canal area and the participation of some French companies in them.

The premier also made it clear that the economic reform program adopted by the government is based on balanced bases to propel economic growth, create job opportunities and restore stability to the state's foundations and administrative and legislative bodies.

He also briefed them on the Egyptian efforts exerted to combat terrorism and extremist thoughts, highlighting the need for drying up roots of terrorism and its funding to prevent it from further spreading to other countries. He also explained that Egypt's fight against terror did not only focus on the security aspect, but also on the need to adopt a comprehensive strategy comprising the economic, social and cultural aspects.

The premier's visit to France comes to follow up the outcome of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi's visit to France in November which reflected a common resolve to push ahead relations in the economic, military, cultural and education domains as well as cooperation vis-a-vis regional and international issues of common interest.