Welch appreciates Mubarak's support for US war on terror
Egypt-USA, Politics, 11/8/2001

US Ambassador in Cairo David Welch voiced appreciation of President Hosni Mubarak for his support to the US after the September 11 attacks and highlighted the deeply rooted bilateral relations.

Addressing the monthly meeting of the Chamber of Commerce in Cairo Wednesday, Welch said that the US campaign on Afghanistan is not a war against Islam or Muslims.

He appreciated statements by Foreign Minister Ahmed Maher in which he said Osama Bin Laden neither represented Islam nor Muslims.

"The aim of the US is to destroy Al-Qaeda organization and the so-called ruling Taliban movement," said the ambassador. He added that the US is the largest donor country to Afghanistan.

"The US does its best to avoid striking civilians and regrets strikes by mistake," Welch said. He added that the US would remain the largest investment and trade partner in Egypt.

"The US, in cooperation with the Egyptian government, will continue efforts for stabilizing the Mitchell Commission recommendation and resume peace negotiations," said the US Ambassador.

He added that Egypt and the US were seeking to build strong Egyptian economy. Egyptian-US trade volume has increased by 44 % in 1999-2000 and by 22 % in 2000-2001, with US aid amounting to $ 655 million in 2002.

Welch dismissed any relation between the Sept. 11 attack and the Mideast issue and underlined that his country would continue efforts for boosting the Middle East peace process.

Asked whether the US would veto the dispatch of international monitors, Welch said the issue was not tabled for discussion. He added that his country would send troops or peacemaking and monitoring missions provided that both parties reach agreement.

Asked about a possible increase of economic aid to Egypt, he said that the US seeks to help build a strong Egyptian economy.

He added that the USAID would grant $ 655 million to Egypt in the Fiscal year 2002 to enhance the capabilities of the Egyptian economy.

He concluded that the American embassy in Cairo always assured Americans that there was no problem to stay and invest in Egypt because it is not a war zone.

Previous Stories:
  EFACD in USA today to discuss Mideast peace, terrorism   (10/29/2001)
  US praises Egypt's support for int'l drive against terrorism   (10/27/2001)
  US keen on continuing dialogue with Egypt   (10/27/2001)

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