Norwegian Foreign Minister visits Egypt

Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre commented: “Egypt is in a critical phase after a historic revolution, in which the younger generation has played a decisive role. Now the people’s demands for democracy and human rights must be met. We intend to further develop our contact with popular movements and progressive potential leaders on the Egyptian political stage.” 

Mr Støre is visiting Egypt from 28 February to 2 March. He will have talks with a whole range of representatives of the authorities, opposition parties, political youth groups and key analysts. For example, he will meet the Secretary-General of the Arabic League, Amr Moussa, the Egyptian Foreign Minister, Aboul Gheit, and Nobel Peace Laureate and former head of the International Atomic Energy Agency Mohammed El Baradei. The subject of these talks will be political and democratic developments in Egypt, the situation in the region with particular focus on Libya, the peace process in Sudan, and the peace process between Israel and the Palestinian Authority. 

“The revolution we have witnessed in Egypt was started and driven by the Egyptians themselves. The President has stepped down, and now the people’s hopes and demands for reform need to be met – step by step. The constitution must be changed, elections held, and economic growth created. I want to listen to the Egyptians’ own views and experiences, and find out how Norway can assist and support the country on its path towards democracy and economic development,” Mr Støre said. 

Mr Støre will conclude his tour with a one-day visit to Jerusalem and Ramallah for talks with Israeli and Palestinian leaders on 2 March.