President Abdel Fattah El Sisi said Egypt counts on Malta to brief the European Union (EU) countries on the truth of developments in Egypt and the Arab region in light of Malta's presidency of the Council of the European Union for the next six-month term.

Sisi's remarks were made on the sidelines of his meeting Wednesday with Maltese Foreign Minister George Vella in the presence of Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry and Malta's Ambassador in Cairo.

Vella affirmed the strength and depth of Egyptian-Maltese historical relations and his country's keenness on boosting them in all domains, presidential spokesman Alaa Youssef said.

Malta's top diplomat said his country is following up the economic reforms carried out in Egypt over the past period, affirming Malta's support for Egypt's endeavors to achieve comprehensive development, Youssef noted.

Vella also pointed out to Egypt's strategic importance in the Middle East and the Mediterranean region, stressing in this regard that Malta is showing interest in coordination and consultation with Cairo on various regional and international issues of mutual concern.

President Sisi affirmed Egypt's appreciation of the close relations with Malta, adding that Cairo is keen on continuing cooperation with Malta in all fields, said the spokesman.

Meanwhile, Sisi congratulated Malta on its presidency of the upcoming six-month term of the Council of the European Union.

The Egyptian leader also underscored the importance of intensifying coordination and consultation between Cairo and Valletta on challenges facing the Middle East and Europe, atop of which are terrorism and the influx of refugees and illegal immigrants.

Source: MENA