Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, currently visiting here, conveyed a message from President Abdel Fattah El Sisi to Salva Kiir, the President of South Sudan.

Shoukry extended Sisi's best regards to Kiir and stressed Egypt's keenness on boosting cooperation between the two Nile countries.

Accompanying Shoukry on his visit to South Sudan is Irrigation Minister Hossam Moghazi.

Kiir asked Shoukry to convey his best regards to Sisi as well, said Foreign Ministry spokesman Badr Abdel Aati on Wednesday.

He said he was thankful to Egypt for the humanitarian and development aid offered to the people of South Sudan, Abdel Aati said.

Egypt is a close friend of South Sudan, Kiir said, adding that his country is keen on enhancing ties with Cairo.

The South Sudanese president said he was happy with the level of ties between the two Nile countries and voiced commitment to further enhancing them, Abdel Aati said.

The meeting between Shoukry and Kiir also focused on the political crisis in South Sudan. Shoukry reiterated Egypt's support for efforts to reach a settlement to the crisis between the government and opposition in South Sudan, the Foreign Ministry spokesman said.

Kiir posted Shoukry on the latest developments regarding mediation talks meant to find a solution to the problem.

He stressed the importance of the Egyptian role in supporting those negotiations.

Shoukry and Kiir also exchanged views about efforts to achieve stability and development in Africa, with focus on the Horn of Africa region, Abdel Aati added.