Chancellor Angela Merkel pointed to the excellent economic cooperation between the two countries, but unequivocally condemned the death sentences passed recently.

Angela Merkel discussed a whole range of issues with her guest. At the press conference with the Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi on Wednesday (3 June 2015) she underlined the strategic importance of the country for peace in the Middle East and for the fight against Islamist terrorism.

Assistance for economic development

Economic cooperation was an important point on the agenda. Germany would like to help Egypt’s economic development efforts, and will do all it can to enable the economy to flourish and the country to ensure stability. Germany is very much interested in seeing positive economic development in Egypt, which has a very young population, said Angela Merkel. The size of the business delegation accompanying President al-Sisi was also proof of the importance of economic cooperation.

Angela Merkel condemns death penalty

Angela Merkel also stressed the differences of opinion between herself and President al-Sisi, however, especially with regard to the death penalty. Angela Merkel condemned the many death sentences passed in Egypt. "Germany rejects the death penalty," she said.

Freedom of religion is also important for the Egyptian people, she added: all Egyptians must be free to practise their religion.

The political talks provided an opportunity to discuss differences of opinion without compromise, she reported. It is also important though to speak to one another and not to lose sight of the imperatives of ensuring security and stability in the region.

Angela Merkel criticised the restrictions on the work of political foundations. The Konrad Adenauer Stiftung is still banned from operating in Egypt.

Middle East peace process and anti-terrorism efforts

The Chancellor advocated a continuation of the Middle East peace process and called for reconciliation between Hamas and Fatah in Gaza. Egypt can play an important part in both conflicts, she said.

Angela Merkel and Abdul Fattah al-Sisi also discussed the situation in Libya and Syria. For Egypt it is important that the situation in neighbouring Libya be stabilised. Equally important is the fight against Boko Haram and the Islamic State terrorists. In the fight against terrorism "we will remain in close contact", said the Chancellor.

President al-Sisi reported that he had discussed democracy at length with the Chancellor and that he had stressed that the ongoing process is good for his country.

The Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi was welcomed with military honours by Federal President Joachim Gauck before meeting Chancellor Angela Merkel for talks at the Federal Chancellery.