President Ahmadi-Nejad always welcome in Cairo: Egyptian minister

Egyptian and Iranian efforts for establishing full diplomatic relations could be boosted by a visit of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadi-Nejad to Cairo, Egyptian Investment Minister Mahmoud Mohieldin told Saturday the German-edition of the Financial Times (FTD) newspaper.

"President Ahmadi-Nejad is the head of a friendly state and he is welcome at all times," said Mohieldin.

The Egyptian official urged also expanded economic ties between his country and Iran.

"We have the potential to improve trade relations and other economic contacts," added Mohieldin.

The minister's remarks come in the wake of this week's Egypt visit by Majlis Speaker Gholam Ali Haddad Adel.

Mohieldin stressed that the Iranian-Egyptian rapprochement process, especially in the economic sector, was not influenced in any way by US efforts.

"We are presenting ourselves as a country which is open for all business spheres. So far there are no economic transactions but only positive signals that good intentions exist -- which we have to promote," the minister said.

"If there are chances to improve the situation, we will act upon it," Mohieldin added.

Iran and Egypt are reportedly seen as possible gas suppliers for the Nabucco pipeline project, linking Turkey with Austria.