World reacts to takeover

United Nations

UN leader Ban Ki-moon believes Egyptians have "legitimate concerns", but is worried about the military's ousting of president Mohammed Morsi, a spokesman said on Wednesday. "Egyptians in their protests have voiced deep frustrations and legitimate concerns. At the same time, military interference in the affairs of any state is of concern," said deputy UN Spokesman Eduardo del Buey.

China

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said on Thursday that China respects the choice of the Egyptian people and hopes the current situation could be eased through dialogue. "The Chinese government feels deep concern over the current situation in Egypt. We hope the parties involved can avoid violence and resolve differences through dialogue and consultation to realize social stability."

United States

US President Barack Obama, whose administration provides $1.3 billion a year to the Egyptian military, expressed concern about Morsi's removal and called for a swift return to a democratically elected civilian government. But he stopped short of condemning the military move in a way that could trigger the blocking of US aid. "During this uncertain period, we expect the military to ensure that the rights of all Egyptian men and women are protected, including the right to peaceful assembly, due process, and free and fair trials in civilian courts."

European Union

The biggest civilian aid donor to Egypt called for a rapid return to the democratic process, which foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said in a statement that should mean "free and fair presidential and parliamentary elections and the approval of a constitution".

China Daily - Reuters - AP

(China Daily 07/05/2013 page10)