Foreign Secretary statement marks Egypt's "critical moment"
Foreign Secretary William Hague has welcomed the peaceful conduct of the second round of the Presidential elections in Egypt as a critical moment in the process towards a democratic civilian led government.
Speaking today, Foreign Secretary William Hague said:
“I welcome the peaceful conduct of the second and final round of Egypt’s Presidential elections. This is a critical moment in the process towards democratic civilian-led government in Egypt.
“It is important that whoever wins has done so through a credible, free and fair process, which fully reflects the will of the Egyptian people. I look forward to the announcement of the results due on Thursday. It is vital that the transition leads to legitimate, accountable and democratic governance, underpinned by strong and accountable institutions.
“We were concerned by recent announcements of the dissolution of Parliament and the reintroduction of powers of arrest and detention for the military. The process of drafting a new, inclusive Constitution and the holding of new parliamentary elections should be taken forward as soon as possible.
“The UK will continue to support the people of Egypt in their aspirations for greater economic opportunities, political participation, freedom and rights, and to that end work with the Egyptian leadership elected by the people.”