US concerned over increasing anti-American sentiment in Egypt

"With regard to this kind of anti-Americanism that's creeping into the Egyptian public discourse, we are concerned. We have expressed these concerns to the Egyptian Government," State Department spokesperson Victoria Nuland told reporters at her daily news conference.

"We think this kind of representation of the United States is not only inaccurate; it's unfair. We are very strong supporters of Egypt's transition to a democratic future, and we will continue to be there for Egypt," she said.

Nuland was responding to questions about a news report in 'The Wall Street Journal' that charged that Egypt's Supreme Council of the Armed Forces is behind a xenophobic campaign in which the generals have repeatedly denounced non-governmental organizations that accept US aid money as traitors.

"With regard to the personal attacks on Ambassador Patterson, they are unacceptable, as you know.

She is one of our finest, most respected, most experienced ambassadors around the world, and she is in Egypt to represent US policy and the American people's aspiration to support a strong, democratic, prosperous Egypt," Nuland said.

In another statement, the State Department said it is aware of the case of a minor American national missing in Egypt.

American authorities are in contact with the Egyptian authorities.

The US Embassy in Cairo is providing all appropriate assistance to the family, the statement said.