Statement on the situation in Egypt by Foreign Minister Alexander Stubb

Press release25/2010
28 January 2011

- Events in Egypt are highly disturbing. The clashes between demonstrators and security forces have been violent, and there have even been fatalities. I wish to express my deep condolences. Everyone should now strive to steady the situation quickly so that there would be no further fatalities or injuries. Finland condemns the use of force.

- I am also concerned that the authorities, for instance, have shut down the Internet. There have been reports that journalists have been detained and assaulted.

- Citizens' possibility to express their opinions is an essential cornerstone of stability in society.

-Today at the African Union meeting in Addis Ababa I have met with the Foreign Minister of Egypt and appealed on behalf of respect for civil liberties and against the use of force.

- We are following the situation closely on behalf of Finns living or travelling in Egypt. The situation is difficult, as there are great problems in the dissemination of information now that the Internet and mobile phone network are not in use. In any case it is clear that in these conditions, unnecessary travel to Cairo should be avoided and caution should otherwise be observed throughout Egypt.

Additional information: Päivi Pohjanheimo, Adviser to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, mobile tel. +358 40 511 3786, and Sanni Grahn-Laasonen, Press Attaché to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, mobile tel. +358 40 732 8340