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Egyptian Journalists Reject U.S. Fingerprinting

Egyptian journalists have spoken out against requirements from the U.S. Embassy in Cairo to submit their fingerprints in order to obtain entry visas to the U.S.

Several senior editors in Egypt have insinuated they may not accompany Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak to Washington in April if the requirement remains in effect, according to the Saudi daily Al-Watan.

Editor-in-chief of the Egyptian daily Al-Gumhouriyya Samir Rajab, implied the decision to fingerprint Egyptian editors is surprising, bearing in mind that Americans can enter Egypt with ease.

As of January 5, visitors entering the United States with a visa are required to have their two index fingers scanned and pose for a digital photograph to establish the visitor’s identity. The step is intended to enhance U.S. border security.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is implementing the new procedure, known as US-VISIT. Only visitors entering the United States with a visa are subject to the new requirements.