In phone call with Egyptian foreign minister, Ban urges launch of reconciliation process

Speaking with Egypt’s foreign minister today, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stressed the need to end all violence and urged the country’s leaders to launch a genuine and credible reconciliation process.

Mr. Ban stressed in his phone call with Nabil Fahmy that an inclusive and peaceful political process is the only viable way forward in Egypt.

The country has been undergoing a democratic transition following the toppling of President Hosni Mubarak two years ago in the wake of mass protests similar to those seen in other parts of the Middle East and North Africa as part of the “Arab Spring.”

Last month, widespread protests – in which dozens of people were killed and wounded – led to the Egyptian military deposing President Mohamed Morsy. The Constitution was then suspended and an interim government set up.

During the phone call, Mr. Ban appealed for an end to all violence and urged the interim authorities to ensure the protection of the fundamental human rights of all Egyptians, including freedom of speech and assembly.

He also reiterated his call for the release of Mr. Morsy and reminded Egypt’s leaders of their responsibility to determine the direction of their country’s future.