European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the Commission Catherine Ashton has issued a statement on the protests that have rocked Egypt in the last three days condemning the use of violence and the widespread arrests of protestors.
"I deplore the reported deaths following the demonstrations taking place in Egypt. I wish to extend my sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased,” Ashton said.
“I note also with concern the high number of people injured and arrested, and the use of violence. I call on all parties to exercise restraint and on the Egyptian authorities to release all peaceful demonstrators who have been detained.”
“Freedom of expression and the right to assemble peacefully are fundamental rights of every human being,” she continued. “I call on the Egyptian authorities to fully respect and protect the rights of their citizens to manifest their political aspirations by means of peaceful demonstrations. The voices calling for the full respect of their political, social and economic rights should be listened to carefully."
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