The American National Security advisor, Condoleeza Rice, reiterated during her meeting with the Egyptian Minister of Economy, Yousef Boutros Ghali, that the US had always appreciated President Mubarak for his courageous stance against international terrorism.
She said that what the American press writes criticizing Egypt does not in anyway reflect the opinion of the American administration which has shown its willingness to support and enhance the Egyptian economy.
Ghali said, “USA, Canada and the EU have agreed to allow more Egyptian exports to their markets and to give our goods the best status at these markets.”
He added at a press conference that he had signed a framework agreement with the American Minister of Economy in Washington to establish the Egyptian-American Presidential Council.
“Egypt has demanded a financial aid amounting to 5.2 billion dollars from the US. Washington promised to give the Egyptian exports special commercial advantages and agreed on beginning negotiations for the free trade agreement between the two countries,” said Ghali, adding that the US showed its readiness to help Egypt confront the consequences of September 11 attacks particularly in the economic and employment aspects.
“The anticipated GAT meeting in Doha will provide the third world countries with some corrective amendments to Uruguay agreement particularly in agriculture and services,” added Ghali pointing that the developing countries including Egypt have managed to solve 50 out of 90 points of disputes with the developed countries and negotiations will be resumed to solve the remaining differences – Albawaba.com
