Brussels, 16/07/2013 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 15 July, French President François Hollande and United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon called for an end to the violence in Egypt, supporting the resumption of a “political process” and a “return to constitutional order”.
Clashes must be avoided, and the return to order must be allowed - especially to constitutional order - and the conditions for a political solution to be brought about as soon as possible must be put in place, Hollande said. He also underlined his concern and stated his resolve to do everything possible for a political process to permit the organisation of elections and the assembly of all stakeholders.
Ban Ki-moon stated that this is now a critical turning point, and that it is imperative that all Egyptians work for a peaceful return to constitutional order and democratic governance. In his opinion, the political leaders in Egypt are responsible for illustrating, through their words and actions, their commitment to a peaceful and democratic dialogue including all Egyptian stakeholders. He also said that there should be no place for vengeance or the exclusion of a party or important community.
Seven people died and over 260 were wounded in clashes in Cairo during the night of 15-16 July. Over 400 people were arrested.
Elsewhere, the Euro-Mediterranean human rights network called on the EU institutions and the governments of the EU member states to bring their help to the ongoing transition process in Egypt, and to support the action of those who are involved. (CG/transl.fl)