CAIRO: Dr. Essam Sharaf, Prime Minister of the interim government of Egypt, is looking forward to meeting King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, who is considered the “eldest brother of Egypt”. Sharaf, who is scheduled to arrive on an official visit to the Kingdom, Monday, made the comment in an interview with Okaz/Saudi Gazette. “Overcoming the current instability and unrest being experienced in the region can only be made with cooperation between Egypt and the Kingdom. The two countries are most capable of mobilizing Arab countries to achieve their ambitions.” He said Cairo wants to strengthen its relations with Tehran but on condition that it does not interfere in the internal affairs of Egypt and other countries in the Gulf and the region. Sharaf said the overthrow of the previous regime was the start of comprehensive change at all levels and would not be limited to removing former leaders and prominent figures. He rejected allegations that the youth, who led the uprising, want revenge on the previous leadership. Legal action against the former president and his two sons was not motivated by revenge, he said. During his meeting with King Abdullah, Sharaf said he will stress that Egypt needs the help of the Kingdom and assure the government that Saudi investments in his country are safe. “By Allah's blessings, there will be more fruitful cooperation in trade and investment in the best interests of the two countries' people.” He said a visit by an Egyptian official to Riyadh is natural considering the strong bonds of brotherhood, cooperation and partnership between the two countries. “The two countries know each other well. The two countries have always been keen to ensure mutual coordination vis-a-vis several issues of common interest.” He said his visit to the Kingdom confirms the importance of relations between the two countries, in particular the region's security and stability. Sharaf added that Egypt is committed to ensuring that there is stability and security in the Arabian Gulf region, which he considers a national commitment. He said the Palestinian issue will be on top of the meeting's agenda.
