Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry affirmed on Wednesday that international organisations and bodies are welcome to monitor the upcoming Egyptian presidential election. Recently, Minister of Social Solidarity Ghada Wali stated that the National Elections Commission (NEC) had received a total of 64 requests from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to monitor the 2018 Egyptian presidential election, but explained that NGOs will be given a license allowing them to monitor the elections if they meet a set of requirements, as set out by the NEC. She noted that NGOs must demonstrate support for human rights and democracy in order to be granted a license. Additionally, other specifications require NGOs to have a good reputation, demonstrate impartiality and fairness, and have former experience in monitoring elections. On the mutual co-operation between Spain and Egypt, Shoukry emphasized that Egypt will continue consultations with Spain in the field of gas exploration, noting that Egypt is paying great respect to the commitments and interests of its partners.

Source: Egypt Independent February 15, 2018 11:26 UTC