China hopes for smooth Egypt elections despite violent protests

China on Monday expressed hope that Egypt's elections and power transfer could go smoothly, despite recent clashes between protesters and police in the Egyptian capital of Cairo. Speaking at a press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Weimin said China has paid attention to the reports and hopes the relevant Egyptian parties can resolve their differences by negotiations. The spokesman called on all sides to avoid further casualties and work together to maintain social unity and national stability. The death toll from the past two days of violence now stands at 12, with more than 1,000 others injured on Sunday. The Egyptian government said in a statement after an urgent meeting Sunday the parliamentary elections would start as scheduled, although it accused some people of intending to disturb the elections and prevent the formation of state institutions.