Secretary of State John Kerry met with Egypt's foreign minister Nabil Fahmy on Sunday -- the highest level visit from the U.S. since President Muhamad Mursi's removal.

He said Cairo was a vital partner - apparently trying to repair ties, which are strained by the partial freeze in U.S. --- following athe coup that ousted Mursi.

SOUNDBITE: U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry saying:

"We want to help. We're prepared to do so. And the way it will unfold as democracy is rekindled in its strength and as the people of Egypt make their choices in the future, I am confident the United States of America will be able to stand with you, and do even more."

Fahmy also indicated an intent to restore democracy.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) EGYPTIAN FOREIGN MINISTER, NABIL FAHMY, SAYING:

"I'd like to see the roadmap completed within the nine to twelve months time period that it's set to deliver. And that creates the institutions of a democratic government. I think if we suc