FM Sameh Shoukry: Egypt's foreign policy balanced

Egypt's foreign policy is balanced and emanates from the general interest of the Egyptian nation, affirmed Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry.
In an interview with France 24 channel, Shoukry said that the first foreign tour to Russia by Egypt's President Abdel Fattah El Sisi came as part of Egypt's keenness on boosting ties with all countries, which are keen on cooperating with Egypt.
Asked about the US recent declaration of delivering Apache helicopters to Egypt, Shoukry said that the military equipment provided by the US to Egypt was crucial to combat terrorism in Sinai and promote the Egyptian army's capabilities to protect the borders.
He further said that sending the planes by the US to Cairo is considered an evidence that Egypt needs to face challenges facing it.
Talking about the Libyan crisis, Shoukry said that Egypt exerts efforts to cooperate with the Libyan government in the various fields.
Asked about the existence of Daesh group, Shoukry said that French President Francois Hollande suggested holding an international conference to discuss this issue.
The minister, meanwhile, said that the ceasefire in Gaza is still in effect, adding that Egypt is holding talks separately with Israel and Palestine to assess the situation and discuss the possibility of resuming negotiations.