US: reform 'vital' to Egypt's long-term wellbeing

The US State Department said on Friday that "reform is vital" to Egypt's long-term well-being and that the Egyptian government should regard its people as a partner, not a threat.

"Events unfolding in Egypt are of deep concern. Fundamental rights must be respected, violence avoided and open communications allowed," US State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said in message posted on Twitter. "Reform is vital to Egypt's long-term well-being. The Egyptian government should view its people as a partner and not as a threat." (Reuters)