Germany is Egypt’s third most important trading partner and, according to an official schedule for his visit, Mr. Morsi was to meet with leaders of industry as well as the chancellor, hoping to persuade them to bring badly needed investment to his country.
The cancellation of his trip to Paris was reported by French and Egyptian officials.
In Berlin, German officials signaled that Mr. Morsi would face questions about his democratic credentials after declaring a state of emergency in three Suez Canal cities gripped by protest and violence.
Before Mr. Morsi arrived, Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle stressed the importance of democratic reforms in Egypt in exchange for economic support from Berlin.
“We have seen worrying images in recent days, images of violence and destruction,” Mr. Westerwelle told the Deutsche Welle state broadcaster. “I appeal to both sides to engage in dialogue.” At the same time, he urged the West to have patience with Egypt, expressing understanding for the difficulties facing Mr. Morsi in leading his country through a transformation.
Last year Egypt received around $130 million in development aid from the German government. Germany’s industry sector also views Egypt as having great potential, given its strategic location and size.
Read more: Egyptian President Arrives in Berlin on Shortened Europe Visit - NYTimes.com
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