Press Release
9/3/2011
Deliberate killings of Christians in Egypt must be stopped. The perpetrators must be brought to justice. Joseph Daul MEP, Chairman of the EPP Group, and Mario Mauro MEP
"The EPP Group is shocked and appalled at the news of the killing of several Christians today who were protesting against the burning down of a church. Our thoughts and sympathies are with the families of the more than 10 people who have lost their lives today in the tragic clashes", said Joseph Daul MEP, Chairman of the EPP Group and Mario Mauro MEP in a joint statement on Wednesday evening.
"According to reports, these killings were perpetrated by Muslim extremists. We expect them to be brought to justice without delay, to answer for this horrid crime", said the two leading MEPs in the European Parliament's largest political Group.
"Moreover, the Egyptian authorities must take every necessary measure to guarantee the safety of Christians in Egypt. The Egyptian army has already said that they have been able to handle the riots. It is difficult to take such a statement seriously in the light of today's tragic events. It is obvious that stronger efforts are necessary to protect Christians in the country," said Mr Daul and Mr Mauro in their statement.
For further information:
Joseph Daul MEP, Chairman of the EPP Group, Tel: +33-3-88175525
Mario Mauro MEP, Tel: +33-3-88175387
Antoine Ripoll, Chairman's Spokesman, Tel: +32-475-856290
Francesco Frapiccini,
EPP Group Press & Communications Service, Tel: +32-473-541724