A couple of weeks ago I was privileged to attend, with a number of parliamentary colleagues, the opening of the new Suez canal in Ismailiyah.
The event was striking in its confidence, and the strident way in which General el-Sisi’s regime projected Egyptian nationhood. In a six hour-long celebration, no reference was made to Islam or any religious symbolism. The commentary, provided by women in Western dinner dress, stressed the ancient civilisation of Egypt and its incredible accomplishments, such as the pyramids, that we all know so well.A couple of weeks ago I was privileged to attend, with a number of parliamentary colleagues, the opening of the new Suez canal in Ismailiyah.
Many foreign leaders were in attendance, including President Hollande of France, and several leaders from the Arab world. They would have been impressed by Egypt’s new-found confidence and the regime’s commitment to face down terrorism from wherever it arises.
The last few years have been some of the most turbulent in Egypt’s long history. ...
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