In exclusive statements to Akhbar El-Youm, Foreign Minister Ahmed Abul-Gheit said President Mubarak's visit to Paris reflects both countries keenness on expanding bilateral political and economic cooperation. He said the aim of the visit was achieved as the two leaders managed to reach early understanding at the personal level. He said the French and Egyptian interests met on the issues of the Mediterranean, the Middle East and Africa.

He said discussions touched on the French proposal for establishing Mediterranean Union, adding the French proposal is good and needs elaborate discussions.

He said the visit reflected the French willingness to establish development projects in Egypt, adding France expressed willingness to cooperate with Egypt in the projects to be carried in the coming stage such as the development of harbours, underground Metro, and infrastructure.

On his part, Eng. Rasheed Mohamed Rasheed, the Minister of trade and Industry said the coming stage would witness more contacts and meetings among officials from both countries on bilateral cooperation issues.

He added President Mubarak was keen during the talks on laying down the foundations of cooperation, expounding that Egypt was keen on benefiting from the close relations with France in attracting more investments and reactivating trade.

He said regional cooperation will help accelerate economic development rates.