UK lifts travel restriction in central Upper Egypt

British ambassador to Egypt John Casson travelled to Minya on Saturday, marking the lifting of his country’s travel restriction to central Upper Egypt.

The lifting of the travel ban also includes the governorates of Beni Suef, Assiut and Sohag.

The ambassador met with Governor Salah Ziada and visited tourist sites in the area during his first official visit to Upper Egypt.

The travel restrictions were put in place following the spread of violence nationwide in the wake of a security crackdown on supporters of ousted President Mohamed Morsi last summer.

“Casson’s visit will have a strong focus on creating opportunities for all Egyptians,” read a Saturday statement from the British embassy. “He will see how UK-funded projects are supporting small social enterprises and empowering women in Upper Egypt.”