Egypt's Mubarak to visit Germany

Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak is due in Berlin on Friday for talks with German leaders on issues including the Israeli-Paliestinian conflict and moves toward democracy in the Middle East . German President Horst Koehler was to greet Mubarak at his Berlin palace. Mubarak meets Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday and Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier on Sunday.

Photo: Egypt's Mubarak to visit Germany

Islamic militant group Hamas swept the Jan. 25 parliamentary election. German officials have said they expect Mubarak to address the Palestinian situation. Germany , like other European governments, is insisting that Hamas recognize Israel , renounce violence and support existing agreements under the international "road map" for peace in the region.

The Egyptian leader arrives from talks with Italian leaders in Rome on issues including Iran 's disputed nuclear program. He is also expected to visit Austria , which holds the rotating presidency of the European Union. Meanwhile, EU foreign ministers on Friday open two days of informal talks in Salzburg , Austria , to debate funding for Palestinians after Hamas assumes power, reports the AP.

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