British assets of Arab Spring regimes 'will be unfrozen A key challenge for Mr Morsi is curbing the military and security officials who supported the Mubarak regime. To assist him, Mr Cameron will send Gen Sir David Richards, the Chief of the Defence Staff, to Egypt later this year. Sir David's visit could pave the way for the UK to provide mentoring and training for Egyptian military officers on the importance of staying separated from politics. Recent anti-Western riots in some Arab countries have led some analysts to conclude that the fall of dictators has created an opportunity for extremists who were previously suppressed. But sources said Mr Cameron remained "optimistic" about the Arab Spring and wanted to encourage leaders he believes are doing the right thing. The Prime Minister wanted new Arab leaders to be "judged on their actions," sources said. He believes Mr Morsi has taken positive steps in tackling militant groups in the Sinai along the border with Israel. Mr Morsi retains links with the Brotherhood, which helped secure his election. That connection has prompted concerns about the government in Cairo, but Mr Cameron is backing the new leader. A senior government source said: "President Morsi is making an interesting and quite impressive start. It is going to be an absolutely key country for that region's future. The source added: "Of course everyone has concerns and worries and interests. You have got to judge people by what they do. As well as his meetings with Middle Eastern leaders, Mr Cameron will have a joint meeting with Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan and Asif Ali Zardari of Pakistan to discuss Afghan security. Mr Cameron is said to remain "optimistic" about progress in the country and a British withdrawal by the end of 2014.