Norway condemns the use of violence in Egypt and calls for political change

“We condemn the use of violence in the streets of Cairo. The clashes in Egypt must not be used as a pretext for cracking down on the reform movement and impede an orderly transition to democratic rule. The Egyptians’ right to freedom of expression and the media’s right to report freely must be respected,” said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

The historic mass protests in Cairo and other Egyptian cities during the past few days have mobilised broad segments of the Egyptian population. President Mubarak has said that he will not seek re-election in September 2011. However, the political tension appears to be rising, and there have been violent clashes between regime loyalists and pro-democracy protesters.

“The government and the law enforcement authorities are responsible for preventing violent assaults such as those we have seen in Tahrir Square and elsewhere in Egypt,” said Mr. Støre.

“Norway supports the Egyptian people’s legitimate demand for democratic and fundamental political change. All parties must refrain from violence. The political leadership has the primary responsibility for initiating dialogue and embarking on fundamental political reforms,” said the Foreign Minister.