Indonesia, Egypt reach deal on fighting terrorism, citizen protection

The government of Indonesia and Egypt agreed to join hands in fighting terrorism as the Middle East country will step up protection against Indonesian citizens there, leaders of the countries said here on Friday.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo held a meeting with visiting President of Arab Republic of Egypt Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi at the State Palace on Friday.

Both leaders agreed to bring the bilateral ties to a higher level and intensify communication to settle challenges being faced at present.

"One of them is to combat terrorism and radicalism," said President al Sisi at a joint press conference after the meeting.

On citizen protections, al-Sisi said that his country would comply with President Widodo's request to protect Indonesian migrant workers and students in his country, according to Widodo.

Around 3,000 Indonesians study in Egypt and about 1,200 others work in the country, according to the president.

On investment, President Widodo asked the government of Egypt to help smooth the process for Indonesian investors to invest in the country.

"Indonesia asks the government of Egypt to help ease the procedure of investment for Indonesian investors," he said.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said Indonesia has big investment in Egypt in the sectors such as textile and foods and beverage. Endi