The White House said Sunday that President Obama has talked over the weekend with world leaders about the political turmoil in Egypt.
Egyptians have held violent and deadly street protests in Cairo over the past six days in opposition to President Hosni Mubarak. They are calling for fair elections to advance democracy and improve their economy.
The White House said Mr. Obama spoke Sunday with British Prime Minister David Cameron.
Mr. Obama restated his focus on opposing violence and calling for restraint, the White House said. Mr Obama stated his support for universal rights, including the right to peaceful assembly and free speech. Mr. Obama also said he supports an “orderly transition” to a government that is responsive to the aspirations of the Egyptian people, according to the White House.
On Saturday, Mr. Obama spoke with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia.
Mr. Obama also asked each of the leaders for their assessment of the situation and agreed to stay in close contact going forward, the White House said.
• Joseph Weber can be reached at jweber@washingtontimes.com.old.
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