“I am gravely concerned by the latest news from Cairo and Alexandria. I appeal to all sides to refrain from using any kind of violence.
It is of crucial importance that next week’s parliamentary elections can be held in a peaceful and orderly environment. This would be Egypt’s first major step on the road towards democracy.
During recent months the Egyptian people have persistently stood up for democratic development of their country. Their achievements must not now be put at risk. It is the view of the German Government that every effort must now be made to ensure the first step can be taken towards handing over power to a democratically elected government.”