Egyptian president calls for continued support from Portugal

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi who was on an official visit in Lisbon on Monday called on Portugal to continue to support his country's "democratic transition."

"We give a lot of value to Portugal's stance towards the transition to democracy in Egypt and we expect more efforts from your country to overcome this situation," al-Sisi said during a joint press conference at Lisbon's presidential palace with his Portuguese counterpart Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.

Al-Sisi added that that he was looking forward to a "very advanced and modern country" and pointed to the importance of Portugal's role in Egypt's transition towards democracy.

"Freedom in Egypt is very important for safety, namely of the Mediterranean and Europe," he said.

Al-Sisi's visit to Portugal came after Egypt's public prosecutor recently brought before the military judiciary over 290 suspected Islamic State militants, with some accused of planning to assassinate the Egyptian president.

The Sinai Peninsula has seen a rise in insurgency after Al-Sisi overthrew President Mohamed Morsi in 2013, which led to mass protests.

Al-Sisi has said he is laying the foundation for a democratic transition after years of turmoil.

Rebelo de Sousa said he was very pleased to receive Al-Sisi, pointing out that his visit marked 24 years since an Egyptian president last visited.

"It is a reason for joy for Portugal, because it means a positive rapprochement for both countries," he said, adding that the visit could mean a reinforcement of bilateral relations and collaboration in cultural, economic, social, political and strategic domains.

Other issues discussed during their meeting include the refugee crisis, ways to overcome instability in the mediterranean sea and the development of Africa.

Al-Sisi congratulated Portugal for the election of Antonio Guterres for next Secretary General of the United Nations which he said reflected Portugal's importance internationally.

Al-Sisi during the visit also met Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa. Endit