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Summary Egypt receives $1.3 billion annually in military aid.
Defence Secretary Leon Panetta reaffirmed US support for Egypts democratic transition and stability during a lightning visit to Cairo on Tuesday as part of a regional tour.Panetta met Field Marshal Hussein Tantawi, the head of the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF), as well as newly elected Islamist President Mohamed Morsi.My message today was consistent with our previous conversations -- the US strongly supports an orderly, peaceful and legitimate transition to a democratic system of government here in Egypt, Panetta told reporters. I believe (Tantawi) was critical in overseeing a peaceful, free and fair election. I commended him and the SCAF and their positive role in the process, he said.Morsi and the SCAF -- which ruled Egypt after a popular uprising toppled Hosni Mubarak in February last year -- have been locked in a power struggle since the Islamist took office in June. But Panetta said he was pleased to hear Field Marshal Tantawis firm commitment to the transition to full civilian rule.For the first time since the ouster of the monarchy in 1952, Egypts head of state has not emerged from military ranks. Panetta stressed the importance of promoting a broad-based coalition that is critical to the success of the government here in EgyptI was convinced that President Morsi is his own man and that he is the president of all the Egyptian people and that hes truly committed to implement democratic reforms here in Egypt, Panetta said. The election of Morsi, who emerged from the powerful Muslim Brotherhood, had raised fears, particularly among secularists and Christians, that personal freedoms would be stifled. But Morsi has repeatedly vowed to be a president for all Egyptians.Its my view that President Morsi and Field Marshal Tantawi have a very good working relationship and are working together for the same ends, Panetta said. Its clear that Egypt, following the revolution, is committed to putting in place a democratic government and a democratic government that represents all of the constituencies and interests here in Egypt.The Pentagon chief stressed the need for strong military cooperation between the US and its longtime Middle East ally.There is continuing support for a strong military to military relationship, because security for Egypt is important for the stability of this country as it implements democratic transition, Panetta said.We have a history of working together in a cooperative way with the Egyptian military leadership we will continue to provide with whatever aid or assistance we can to try to help them.
