CAIRO, Aug 8 (Aswat Masriya) - Newly assigned British ambassador to Egypt John Casson arrived on Friday to take up his appointment, Egypt's state-run MENA agency reported.

Casson, who was the Prime Minister's Foreign Affairs Private Secretary, will succeed ambassador James Watt following his retirement from the Diplomatic Service.

Casson also worked as Deputy Ambassador in Jordan and accompanied the Prime Minister on his visit to Egypt in 2011.

"Egypt's current period of challenge and change will shape the long-term future for Egyptians, and will be pivotal for the region," Casson said after his assignment to Egypt as Britain's ambassador.

He added that "Britain has a deep interest in Egypt's political, security and economic success.

"I am proud to have the privilege and responsibility of leading our teams in Egypt at this vital time."