391px-John_Kerry_promotional_photograph_columns

Jennifer Ubah,

Correspondent (North America)

 

CAIRO – US Secretary of State John Kerry has urged Egypt to see an end to all the violence and to become a full democracy, following President Mohammed Morsi’s expulsion from power. He gave a speech expressing his views during a recent visit to Cairo.

Kerry has said, “History has demonstrated that democracies are more stable, viable and prosperous than any alternative.” He believes that a stable country promotes employment as tourism and investment come into play.

Kerry visit to Cairo was not let known of until he landed due to security reasons. This was the first time that a US Secretary of State travelled to Egypt with the trip not being disclosed. According to Kim Ghattas, a BBC state department correspondent, it displays America’s concerns over Egypt’s stability and the fear of Egypt’s anti-American feelings.

Kerry met with the interim leaders that have been keeping power since President Morsi was ousted in July. These included President Adly Mahmud Mansour, Prime Minister Hazem el-Beblawi, Foreign Minister Nabil Fahmy and army chief Gen Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.

“The United States believes that the US-Egypt partnership is going to be stronger when Egypt is represented by an inclusive, democratically elected civilian government based on rule of law, fundamental freedoms and an open and competitive economy,” said Kerry.

The US has been sending $1.3bn (£810m) in aid to Egypt but they froze most of this aid last month.

Egypt’s Foreign Minister Nabil Fahmy stated “I mentioned before that US-Egypt relations is going through turbulent time. Kerry’s comments today show positive signs.” Kerry has claimed that the US government are committed to work with interim leaders.

America wants to strengthen allies in the Middle East and Egypt is just one of the countries Kerry is visiting on nine-day tour. Other countries he will visit will include Saudi Arabia, Syria, Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Morocco and Algeria. John Kerry is also likely to have to face questions about alleged extensive US spying.

Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons