CAIRO: Egypt has responded in kind to several European countries by denying their diplomats entry into the country if they have not obtained visas in advance, state-run news agency MENA reported on Thursday.

An airport official told AFP that three diplomats – from Germany, Britain and The Netherlands – who were stationed elsewhere in the Middle East were denied entry at Cairo airport on Thursday.

The decision applies only to diplomats. Ordinary citizens from the three countries will still be allowed to obtain visas on arrival.

MENA quoted foreign ministry spokesman Hossam Zaki as saying the decision was taken several days ago.

If there were (European) countries that wish to sign understandings with Egypt for mutual allowances for (diplomatic) passports, it would be welcome, the agency quoted him as saying. -AFP