UK and Egypt working together

Land February 2, 2017

UK and Egypt reaffirm defence commitment to each other and tackling security threats at a meeting with Defence Secretary Michael Fallon.

At a meeting of Chief of Staff of the Egyptian Armed Forces Lieutenant General Mahmoud Hegazy, Defence Secretary Michael Fallon and Chief of the Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach, the two countries reaffirmed their commitment to each other and tackling security threats.

The meeting was held in London yesterday for the three men to discuss shared challenges and threats, including that posed by Daesh, security interests in Libya, preparations for a future C-IED joint exercise, and the UK’s commitment to security in the region. The meeting follows on from the Defence Secretary’s visit to Egypt last year, where he committed to working with Egypt on C-IED training programmes.

Opportunities for further training and collaboration were also tabled, helping both nations to deepen their military relationship. This further cooperation follows on from numerous joint exercises last year, where Royal Navy warships HMS Ocean and Bulwark met with ENS Tahya Misr to practice manoeuvres and were involved in an air defence exercise. While ten Egyptian officers from their Mistral class helicopter carriers were also hosted on board.

Lieutenant General Mahmoud Hegazy was received by a ceremonial guard from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon said: “Stability abroad helps keep the streets of Britain safer and more secure.

“With a strengthening relationship and as a key partner in defence and military matters, Britain is working with Egypt to combat threats, including from Daesh terrorism in Sinai and Libya.

“Deepening our relationship with Egypt helps ensure stability in the Middle East and improves safety and security here in Britain.”

As part of joint Defence work last year, Royal Navy warships HMS Ocean and Bulwark visited Egypt and met with ENS Tahya Misr to practice manoeuvres and participate in an air defence exercise.

Chief of the Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach said: “I was pleased to welcome Lt Gen Hegazy to London, and following a positive exchange I have personally reaffirmed our important Defence ties. We will continue to develop this military bond.”