Regretting Decision by Egyptian Court to Sentence Journalists, Secretary-General Underscores Importance of Pluralism, Respect for Fundamental Freedoms

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General deeply regrets the decision by the Egyptian Court of Cassation today to uphold the sentencing of Al Jazeera journalists Baher Mohamed, Mohamed Fahmy and Peter Greste (in absentia), as well as others.

The Secretary-General recalls his earlier appeals for their cases to be resolved expeditiously and in accordance with Egypt’s international obligations to protect freedom of expression and association and in full observance of due process guarantees.

The Secretary-General underscores once again the importance of pluralism and respect for fundamental freedoms for the long-term prosperity and stability of Egypt.