EUROPEAN COUNTRIES stepped up the clamour for an immediate “orderly transition” in Egypt as EU leaders prepare to take stock of the increasingly violent situation at a summit today in Brussels.
Amid concern in European capitals at the unpredictability of the turmoil and the intensity of the fightback from supporters of president Hosni Mubarak, EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton urged the authorities in Cairo to make sure the army protected Egyptian citizens.
At their gathering today, the 27 EU heads of state and government are likely to give their authority to a call from foreign ministers for the swift formation of a broad-based government.
A diplomatic source said European leaders may offer special aid to facilitate “free and fair elections” in the country. The source added, however, that EU leaders were likely to leave the US with the lead role in international dialogue with Mr Mubarak.
What remains unclear is the stance of Egypt’s armed forces. While the American military is believed to be in constant contact with Egyptian generals, diplomats believe some in the high command have decided for now to remain loyal to Mr Mubarak.
As disruption escalated on the streets of Cairo yesterday with Mr Mubarak’s supporters asserting themselves against the popular uprising, the source said it was unlikely that EU leaders would call on him to stand down forthwith.
However, there is increasing concern about the potential for a spillover from the uprising that would disrupt the stalled Middle East peace process.
Urgent rhetoric from Europe intensified yesterday, as France, Britain, Germany, Italy and Spain condemned the violence and Ms Ashton called for the protection of demonstrators.
“Urgent, concrete and decisive measures are now needed to meet the democratic aspirations of the Egyptian people. I call on the Egyptian authorities to embark now on a meaningful and real transition towards genuine democratic reform, paving the way for free and fair elections,” Ms Ashton said in a statement.
“I urge the Egyptian authorities to immediately take the necessary measures to ensure that the law enforcement authorities protect the demonstrators and their right to assemble freely.
“I have made clear that it is the responsibility of the army and law enforcement to protect its citizens. The government is accountable for the welfare and safety of its people.
“Those responsible for the loss of life and injuries caused should be held accountable for their actions and brought to justice. The intimidation and aggression directed at journalists is also totally unacceptable.”
The five largest western European countries said in a joint statement that they observed the deteriorating situation with extreme concern.
“We condemn all those who use or encourage violence, which will only worsen Egypt’s political crisis,” said France, Britain, Germany, Italy and Spain.
“Only a rapid and orderly transition towards a broadly representative government will allow Egypt to overcome the challenges that it is facing. This process of transition must start now.”
German foreign minister Guido Westerwelle said he spoke with senior opposition figures in Egypt. “It’s completely obvious that this is a matter for the political opinion makers in Egypt to decide for themselves who shapes the democratic transition and how,” he said.