The Egyptian president was welcomed to the White House just weeks before a referendum on constitutional changes that could extend his power for another 15 years.

Human rights groups had urged Mr Trump to withhold endorsement of Mr Sisi's bid to extend his rule beyond his second term.

But Mr Trump warmly received the Egyptian leader, calling him "my friend" and saying relations between the two countries had never been better.

The constitutional changes that Mr Sisi is preparing would also enhance military control over the country.

Key senators have expressed their concern about this issue, and also about Egypt's recent $2bn (£1.5bn) contract to purchase fighter jets from Russia, which could trigger US sanctions.

Mr Trump said the two had very very important military things to talk about, but he also praised Egypt for making progress on counter-terrorism.