Post date: Jan 30, 2011 12:58:34 PM
The French president and U.N. Secretary General say that events in Egypt and Tunisia could mark a new chapter.
ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA (JANUARY 30, 2011) REUTERS - The 16th African Union summit opened in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa on Sunday (January 30), with French President Nicolas Sarkozy and U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon calling for reforms.
Events in Egypt dominated the agenda, and Ban Ki-moon called for the Egyptian authorities to show restraint when dealing with protesters."With respect to Egypt, I once again make a call for restraint, non-violence and respect for fundamental freedoms and human rights. Around the world leaders must listen more attentively and more sincerely, to the voice of the people, their aspirations, their challenges, their hopes for a better future," said Ban Ki-moon.
Sarkozy highlighted the need for reform in the African world before broaching the subject of Egypt.
"Acknowledging the place one billion Africans have the right to, France will support you. It's been 30 years that we've been speaking about reforms. I suggest that we do it this year, in 2011," said Sarkozy.
He suggested that Egyptian protests would impact upon the rest of the world.
"France will be at the side of Tunisians and Egyptians during this crucial period, that isn't just a crucial period for these two countries, but the world."
During Sarkozy's flying visit he is also expected to address the Ivorian situation and the crisis in Madagascar.
The AU announced late on Friday (January 28) that it would form a panel of five heads of state to resolve the leadership crisis in the Ivory Coast by coming up with a binding settlement within a month.