By IRNA,
Berlin : The United States openly defied demands by millions Egyptians demanding the ouster of President Hosni Mubarak by saying his role remained ‘utterly criticial’ in the transition phase towards a democracy in that Arab country.
Speaking at the 47th Munich Security Conference via a video link from Washington, the US special envoy to Egypt Frank Wisner said, ‘We are aiming for an orderly transition to a democratic future for Egypt. President Mubarak’s role remains utterly critical in the days ahead.’
He urged Mubarak to take a ‘leadership role’ in the transition period.
Wisner’s remarks came after his recent meetings with Mubarak and Egypt’s vice president, Omar Suleiman in Cairo.
Egypt has been struck by major political unrest over the past 12 days following popular demands for Mubarak to finally step down from his past.
While western countries have supported political change in Egypt, they have yet to publicly call for Mubarak’s ouster.