Mubarak receives German FM today

Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak's will receive Tuesday German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer, who arrived in Cairo Monday within a tour of the region. Foreign Minister Ahmed Maher held talks with Fischer.

In statements following talks, Maher voiced pleasure to meet Fischer and exchange viewpoints with him.

He voiced his country appreciation of efforts being exerted by Fischer for easing the volatile situation, noting that the situation is still dangerous.

Maher said that he agreed with Fischer to continue contacts with the various parties concerned in coordination with the U.S. to find a way out of the current logjam.

"Now that the Palestinian Authority (PA) ordered a ceasefire, the Israeli authorities should take measures for easing the Palestinians sufferings in order to build confidence via halting settlement activities and all Israeli practices," Maher said.

Fischer, on his part, voiced his appreciation for President Mubarak's s efforts and said that he was looking forward to meeting Mubarak's prior to visiting Jordan on his last stop in the regional tour.

"The current situation requires a collective action for peace," said Fischer.

He voiced belief that there is a chance to bring in peace and hoped the cease-fire would continue.