MFA Press Statement: Official Visit By Minister For Foreign Affairs George Yeo To Egypt, 3 April 2008

Minister for Foreign Affairs George Yeo called on Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Aboul Gheit in Cairo yesterday. Both Ministers reaffirmed the warm and friendly relations between Egypt and Singapore. They had a frank and free-flowing discussion on regional developments in Asia and the Middle East. Prior to hosting Minister Yeo to dinner, Minister Aboul Gheit and Minister Yeo signed a Cultural Cooperation Agreement. This Agreement provides a framework for cooperation between Egypt and Singapore in the areas of arts, heritage, library and film. It also opens up exciting new areas of collaboration such as the protection and preservation of archaeology, research and restoration of cultural heritage.

Earlier in the day, Minister Yeo called on Arab League Secretary General Amre Moussa. Secretary General Moussa briefed Minister Yeo on developments in the Arab League following the recent Damascus Summit. Both leaders also agreed that there was scope for ASEAN and the Arab League to further strengthen relations. Minister Yeo also met with Singaporean student leaders studying at the Al Azhar University over lunch. Minister Yeo encouraged the students to excel in their studies and keep in touch with developments in Singapore.

Minister Yeo is scheduled to call on Egyptian Finance Minister Youssef Boustros Ghali and Grand Imam of Al Azhar Sheikh Muhammad Sayyid Tantawi today.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
3 APRIL 2008