Speaking on Thursday in Meseberg, the Chancellor expressed her disquiet about the escalation of events in Egypt. These are "turbulent events" and we are following them "with great concern," stressed Angela Merkel. She called on all parties not to resort to violence.

"It is also absolutely indispensable that the fundamental rights of all citizens are respected in Egypt, in spite of the very different views that prevail. Human rights are indivisible," said the Chancellor.

Egypt’s problems can only be resolved, however, if the country enters a swift political process, "in which the democratic order and the rule of law are very swiftly re-established".

Guido Westerwelle speaks of a "set-back for democracy"

The public confrontation between supporters of Mohammed Morsi and his Muslim Brotherhood and opposition forces led to the Egyptian army replacing Mr Morsi with an interim president on 3 July. Adly Mahmud Mansour, Chief Justice at Egypt’s constitutional court, will act as interim president. He was sworn in on Thursday and will form a provisional government.

Federal Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle deemed the events a serious set-back for democracy in Egypt. "Egypt must restore constitutional order as quickly as possible." Those responsible must together seek a way out of the crisis, he added.

Before the most recent events, the Federal Foreign Minister had expressed his hope that Egypt’s young democracy would not fall at the first hurdle, but would be given a fair chance. Egypt, he said, needs a national dialogue in which all political beliefs and forces are involved.

Egypt plays a key role

Egypt has traditionally played the part of political mediator and broker, and active supporter of the peace process in the Middle East. Its economic and military prowess makes the country an important partner in international development cooperation.

Following the example of Tunisia’s "jasmine revolution" Egypt too saw massive popular uprisings in early 2011. Millions of people demonstrated against the authoritarian regime of President Hosni Mubarak. The demonstrators called for political reforms, the rule of law and democracy. On 11 February 2011, after 30 years in office, Hosni Mubarak announced his resignation, and an interim military administration took over. Mohammed Morsi was elected President in June 2012.

Germany as a partner

The German government supports reform forces in Egypt in their efforts to achieve freedom, and bring about political change. In February 2011, within the scope of an emergency measure, Germany created three funds to foster democracy, education and industry in the states of North Africa and the Middle East.

Relations between Germany and Egypt have long been close and diverse. Egypt is a partner country of German development cooperation.