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

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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