Hague hails Egypt election result (From Maldon and Burnham Standard)

Hague hails Egypt election result

6:43pm Sunday 24th June 2012 in National News © Press Association 2013

William Hague hailed an historic moment for Egypt after Mohammed Morsi was elected president.

The Foreign Secretary congratulated the Muslim Brotherhood candidate on securing 51% of the vote in a run-off.

And he urged the new premier to focus on national unity, reconciliation and human rights in the wake of the Arab Spring revolution that saw Hosni Mubarak deposed.

Mr Hague said in a statement: "I congratulate the Egyptian people for their commitment to the democratic process and electing a new President of Egypt. I wish Dr Mohammed Morsi success in the challenging task ahead.

"This is an historic moment for Egypt. I welcome President Morsi's statement that he intends to form an inclusive government that governs on behalf of all the Egyptian people.

"It will be important for the new government to stand for national unity and reconciliation, to build bridges across Egyptian society and to uphold human rights, including the rights of women and religious minorities, and the rule of law.

"An inclusive government with the authority to take forward reforms, and a new Parliament and Constitution which represent the interests of all Egyptians, will be important steps in Egypt's transition to democratic government.

"Britain will support the Egyptian people and their leaders as they take steps to consolidate their democratic rights and institutions and to reinvigorate the Egyptian economy.

"We value our long-standing partnership with Egypt, including on regional issues, and look forward to working with President Morsi and his government to support the process of democratic transition and to promote our common interest in security, stability and prosperity."