Kerry: Egypt vital partner

Visiting U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said here on Sunday Egypt is a "vital partner" that Washington was committed to working with. Speaking at a joint news conference with Egyptian Foreign Minister Nabil Fahmy, Kerry said his visit to Cairo mainly aimed to discuss with officials here the Middle East situation and the future of U.S.-Egyptian relations. He emphasized that Egypt's political and economic success is of paramount significance not only to the Egyptians but to the region, the U.S. and international community as well.. However, he believed that U.S.-Egypt partnership is going to be stronger when there is an inclusive, democratically elected civilian government based on the rule of law, fundamental freedoms and an open and competitive economy. He also called for an end to all forms of violence in Egypt, and urged moves to full democracy on his first visit to the country since President Mohamed Morsi was ousted. "History has demonstrated that democracies are more stable, viable and prosperous than any alternative," he said. Kerry is the most senior US official to visit Egypt since the Egyptian army ousted Morsi in July. His visit is the first stop in a regional tour. For his part, the Egyptian foreign minister stressed the significance of Egyptian-U.S. relations, wishing stronger relations between Cairo and Washington on the basis of mutual interest. He said Kerry's Cairo visit comes at a time when the region is facing a critical time.