El-Sisi: int'l community must curb state-sponsored terrorism

Berlin - President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi asserted that the international community shall exert more efforts to hold state funders of terror so as to root out terrorism. 

In an interview with ARD, a public broadcaster in Germany, President Sisi said the world shall pay attention to extremism as the route for terrorism. 

He said that the self-proclaimed Islamic State (ISIS) is not the only terror group; there are many other groups that exercise extremism under different names. 

Asked about Egypt’s vision, he said ISIS lost battles on the ground, but the world needs to fight ideologies and mistaken opinions that lead to terrorism. 

"The solution shall not be limited to military actions, but it shall cover countering extremism and incorrect religious ideas", he said. 

German investors have a great opportunity to work in the Suez Canal axis, President El- Sisi said, pointing out that the axis, that has its own investment law, includes six ports and two industrial zones. 

The infrastructure of the Suez Canal axis was significantly developed in the last three years, meeting the needs of investors, El- Sisi noted. 

On his impression of taking part in the G20 Africa Partnership Conference, Sisi said that the conference was successful due to the great efforts exerted by German Chancellor Angela Merkel, ministers, and businessmen.

On the illegal immigration to Europe, he said that such a phenomenon should be faced through a comprehensive strategy; including providing job opportunities and achieving development in the developing countries.

Answering a question on the economic reforms and their impact on the Egyptian people, the president praised Egyptians on their eagerness to change reality and their keenness to look forward to a better future.

Al- Sisi asserted that the Radio and TV stations in Egypt are a proof of how right to freedom of speech is being exercised to cover all subjects with enough transparency without interference. 

In response to a question about the police role, Sisi said all violations are being addressed as per the law to protect citizens’ dignity. 

Egypt suffered a number of terror attacks during the past three years, he said, adding the security forces continued to play a key role under a great deal of pressure. He noted Germany has the potentials to help improve police system in Egypt.

In the context of ties with Ethiopia, the president said the River Nile is the only source of water for the Egyptians. He said Cairo understands the importance of the Renaissance Dam for the Ethiopian people, and the two countries have agreed on keeping Egypt’s share of water unaffected.