Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General on Egypt

The Secretary-General commends the Egyptian people for the peaceful atmosphere in which these elections were held. He congratulates Dr. Mohamed Morsy on his election and trusts that the President-elect will spare no effort in ensuring the people of Egypt realise their aspirations for greater democracy, the promotion of human rights, and a more prosperous and stable Egypt for all of its citizens.

The Secretary-General notes that the imminent handover of power to the elected President marks the end of one important phase of Egypt’s ongoing transition to greater democracy. He stresses the need to strengthen and build strong, independent institutions and to allow civil society to flourish and to play its role fully and freely.