The important visit paid by President Mubarak to South Africa and Uganda is a historic visit not only because it is the first visit by an Egyptian President to South Africa since independence, but also due to the very important results of this visit on all political, economic and developmental levels. Both Egypt and South Africa play a major role at the regional and international levels as the biggest two countries in the black continent. On the other hand, Uganda enjoys a very important position as one of the Nile Basin countries.

During his visits to South Africa and Uganda, Mubarak agreed with his African counterparts; Thabo Mbeki and Yoweri Museveni respectively, to boost cooperation at all levels and help the continent stave off more political and economic crises. The three leaders have identical viewpoints with regard to issues of Africa, Middle East and the world food crisis. The visit enhanced the joint relations between Egypt and the two African countries.

One of the fruits of President Mubarak's recent visit to Uganda is the agreement on establishing Egyptian agricultural projects in the African country to produce foodstuffs, fish and meat within the framework of promoting the African continent's strategy for food security.

Facing the international food crisis topped President Mubarak's agenda during this visit. The talks also tackled means of realizing peace and stability in Africa, especially in Sudan, in view of Egypt's key regional and international role in this respect.

Al Akhbar

August 01, 2008