Egypt says U.S. decision to withhold aid could have negative impact - Foreign Ministry

FILE PHOTO - An American flag is seen behind an Egyptian flag at a rally against Egypt's President Hosni Mubarak outside the Federal Building in Westwood, California, January 29, 2011. REUTERS/Eric Thayer

CAIRO (Reuters) - Egypt expressed its regret on Wednesday over a United States decision to deny it $95.7 million in aid and to delay a further $195 million, adding that it may have a negative impact on common interests, its Foreign Ministry said.

Two U.S. sources familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday the decision came because of Egypt's failure to make progress on respecting human rights and democratic norms.