France sells arms to Egypt in the hope of fighting terror. Both the two states have a common enemy that fosters their ties. Recently, Egypt has received a lot of critics following an arrest of rights group members. In its defense, Egypt had speculations that the members are linking with terror groups. However, international critics quickly condemned the act and advocated for their release. French president Macron, alongside Sisi, Egypt`s president, explained the importance of the deal. To protect the credibility of Cairo in fighting terrorism, the relationship between the countries remains highly valued. As a result, an issue like that of rights should not hinder them from addressing the bigger picture in play.
France and Egypt ties
The Sahel region remains a terror site. The Jihadists who reign in the Sahel region have made threats reaching the state of Egypt. This brings the two countries a common enemy to fight off. France provides the means and resources to help in the battlefield for Egypt. Over the years, that is 2013-2017, France has been the main supplier of arms to Egypt.
However, these contracts have been depreciating lately. This includes the deals for Rafale jets and warships to be dispatched at an advanced stage. Most diplomats owe this drying up of contacts to the financial state. Additionally, the human rights concern in Egypt very much contribute.
French nationals and the world’s view on the matter.
A total of 17 French and internationally recognized human rights members are at crossroads with France. This is after President Macron of France approves of Sisi`s visit. They blatantly accuse the president of overlooking Egypt’s state of human rights. In his defense, Macron affirms that the two matters, defense, and human rights are totally different. The differences in human rights should not hinder their goal of fighting terror.
Moreover, the French government has a strict rule for such matters. The policy disbars the country from making public declarations over other country’s rights and records. Instead, a private dialogue should be able to settle any rising concerns. The policy allows France to dismiss all public criticisms at the moment about Egypt.
Sisi`s remarks
Sisi denied all accusations made to his country of human rights abuses. He further explains that addressing his country’s needs does not qualify as an act of an oppressive regime. He argues that his country is striving to achieve the best for its people. In so doing, security and safety are paramount. This is even though the country faces threats from terrorist groups. Macron seconds the release of the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights members. Furthermore, he added a list of individuals whom he expects Sisi to release.
More:
- Egypt frees Activists Members of the Leading Rights Group.
- Libya Condemns Egypt’s ‘Will not Stand Idle’ Threats.
