France condemns violence, reaffirms support for democratic process in Egypt

The French Foreign Ministry on Monday condemned "the acts of violence that have killed several dozen people over the last three days" in Egypt, calling for the establishment of democratically elected civilian institutions. "We call for respect for the freedom of assembly and the freedom to demonstrate and reaffirm the responsibility to exercise this right peacefully," said spokesperson Philippe Lalliot. "France reaffirms its support for an inclusive democratic process that is open to all political movements that reject violence, with a view toward establishing democratically elected civilian institutions in Egypt in accordance with the timetable set out by the road map," he added. Clashes erupted on Sunday in Egypt between security forces and Muslim Brotherhood supporters during commemorations of the 40th anniversary of October 6 war against Israel. At least 51 people were killed and about 270 injured in Sunday's clashes, official news agency MENA reported, citing the health ministry.