US Secretary of State Kerry on tour

US Secretary of State John Kerry today kicked off a tour of countries in the Middle East and North Africa planning to visit Saudi Arabia, Israel, Jordan and Morocco.

Foreign agencies claimed the Secretary of State plans to also visit Egypt, however these claims were not confirmed. Relations between the two countries have been tense following the overthrow of President Morsi, when America froze part of the $1.5bn annual aid it gives to the country. Washington claimed lack of democratic progress and violence were the reason behind the freezing of funds. Kerry would be attempting to better bilateral relations if his travels indeed take him to Egypt.

After the Middle East, the itinerary of Secretary of State John Kerry lists visits to Poland, Abu Dhabi and Algeria. The tour is scheduled to last until 12 November.

Following the Saudi government disappointment over America's hesitation to intervene in Syria, the US Secretary of State will discuss defence and trade issues.

As Kerry travels trough the Middle East, the Palestinian peace process be feature high on the agenda.