Obama: Egypt will never be the same

US president says transition of power in Cairo 'must bring all of Egypt's voices to table'

Reuters | Published: 02.11.11, 22:30

Addressing the dramatic resignation of Egyptian ruler Hosni Mubarak Friday, US President Barack Obama said that "the voices have been heard and Egypt will never be the same."

Obama said that "President Mubarak responded to the Egyptian people's hunger for change," but add that "this is not the end of the transition; it's the beginning."

The president said he is aware that difficult days lie ahead for Egypt and that "many questions remain unanswered." He stressed, however, that "Egyptians have made it clear that nothing less than genuine democracy will do."

The president expressed his confidence that Egypt's military will serve as a responsible caretaker government as the transition of power in the country proceeds.

Addressing the type of transition and democracy he expects to see taking root in Cairo, Obama said that "above all, this transition must bring all of Egypt's voices to the table."

The president stressed that the United States will continue to serve as a "friend and partner" to Egypt, adding that "we stand ready to provide whatever assistance is necessary and is asked for, to pursue credible transition to democracy."

Earlier Friday, Egyptian Vice President Omer Suleiman announced in a brief television appearance that Mubarak has resigned, prompting cheers and tears in Cairo's al-Tahrir square where masses have gathered. The president's resignation has been lauded across the Middle East by groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah, as well as by Iranian President Ahmadinejad.