Secretary of State Torstila’s message to the Egyptian Ambassador in Helsinki

Press release 31/2011
3 February 2011

On 3 February Secretary of State Pertti Torstila discussed the safety of Finns in the crisis area of Egypt with Maasoum Marzouk, the Egyptian Ambassador to Finland.

Torstila told the Ambassador of Finland’s concern over the loss of life and injuries incurred during the violent clashes in Cairo and elsewhere in Egypt. He called attention to foreigners’ safety. Foreigners living and working in Egypt have been subjected to violence and harassment. For example, the work of Finnish journalists has been restricted forcibly.

The Secretary of State stressed the statement made today by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton, which underscored that the Government of Egypt is responsible for protecting citizens and their freedom of assembly. Ashton also demanded that those guilty of violence be brought to account.

Torstila stated that control of the situation and the keys to a solution are in the hands of Egyptians themselves. A credible transition process should be initiated quickly in order to ease the situation and avoid bloodshed. Finland appeals to all parties for an end to the violence in Egypt.