U.S. could help Egypt with nuclear program, ambassador says

CAIRO, Egypt President Hosni Mubarak on Thursday called for Egypt to pursue nuclear energy, as the U.S ambassador said Washington would be willing to help its Mideast ally develop a peaceful program.

Mubarak echoed a call made earlier this week by his son, Gamal, who many believe is being groomed to succeed his father. The proposal surprised some, who saw it as a jab at the United States, which is locked in a confrontation with Iran over its nuclear program. Washington claims Iran is pursuing nuclear weapons, a claim Tehran denies.

"We must increase our exploitation of new energy sources, including the peaceful uses of nuclear energy," President Mubarak said in a televised speech at the closing session of a three-day conference of his ruling National Democratic Party.

IHT