The Government of Egypt has thanked Fiji for its contribution to peacekeeping missions in the Middle East.

This was conveyed to Prime Minster Commodore Vorege Bainimarama who recently met Egyptian Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister Ahmed Fathalla to discuss the current issues and challenges facing the Pacific region in particular Fiji.

At this meeting, Fathalla conveyed his Government=s appreciation to the Prime Minister for the work of Fiji soldiers serving in the Multi-National Forces and Observers.

Fiji has been contributing troops to Sinai since 1982 under the Multinational Forces and Observers (MFO), which continually monitors the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel in the Middle East Region in particular the Sinai Peninsular in Egypt.

Commodore Bainimarama also discussed Fiji=s roadmap and preparation leading to the 2014 elections with the Egyptian Foreign Minister.

Effects of climate change were also highlighted with Egypt=s concern and views of maintaining an international cooperation in addressing the issue.