In a phone call, Kerry told his Egyptian counterpart Nabil Fahmy that he is certifying to Congress that Egypt is sustaining the strategic relationship with the United States as well as “upholding its obligations under the Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty.” Kerry also told Fahmy he is “not yet able to certify that Egypt is taking steps to support a democratic transition,” urging Egyptian officials to follow through on its commitment to transition to democracy – including by conducting “free, fair, and transparent” elections and “easing restrictions” on freedom of expression, assembly, and the media.
U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel reiterated similar points to Defense Minister Colonel General Sebki Sodhi in a phone call Tuesday evening. In addition, Hagel also confirmed that the United States will deliver ten Apache helicopters “in support of Egypt’s counterterrorism operations in the Sinai.” The announcement comes ahead of meetings between Fahmy and American officials in Washington, D.C. Fahmy is slated to discuss political, economic, and commercial interests in the U.S.-Egypt relationship. General Intelligence Chief Major General Mohamed al-Tohamy will also meet Kerry on Wednesday.