SHARM EL-SHEIK, Egypt — President Bush’s fast-track plan for a Middle East peace agreement got a welcome endorsement yesterday from a nation long seen as a key Arab mediator. Mr. Bush responded by pulling his punches on the human rights backpedaling in Egypt that has cooled relations with this longtime ally.

The president closed an eight-day Middle East trip well-fed from several lingering meals with his Arab hosts.

In a brief appearance with President Mubarak of Egypt, Mr. Bush dealt gently with the pace of political reform in Egypt, the issue that has most distanced his administration from this historical partner, the first Arab state to make peace with Israel and the recipient of the most American aid except Israel. He started with praise that had less to do with Egypt’s government than with its history and populace.

“Because of the predominate role you play, and because I strongly believe that Egypt can play a role in the freedom and justice movement … my hope is that the Egyptian government will build on these important steps,” Mr. Bush said.

He did not publicly mention jailed political opposition leader Ayman Nour, whose case American officials have pledged to raise each time they meet the Egyptians.