Salehi, ElBaradei discuss latest developments in Egypt

Iran’s Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi and interim Egyptian Vice-President Mohamed ElBaradei have exchanged views on the latest developments in Egypt.

In a telephone conversation early Saturday, the Iranian minister said Egypt’s fate is only determined according to the will of its own people.

The Egyptian people’s decision regarding the country’s political future will be respected by all, Salehi said.

He called on all political groups and the elite in Egypt to work within the framework of a national political process toward promoting the goals of the Egyptians based on unity among people from all walks of life.

ElBaradei, for his part, highlighted Iran’s important position and called for the “best of relations” with Tehran.

He also urged the continuation of consultations between Egypt and Iran on key regional issues.

On July 3, General Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, the head of Egypt’s Army, announced that President Mohamed Morsi was no longer in power. Sisi also dissolved the Egyptian constitution.

The Chief Justice of Egypt’s Supreme Constitutional Court, Adli Mansour, was sworn in as interim president on July 4.

Since then, Egypt has been the scene of rival rallies and clashes between thousands of the supporters and opponents of Morsi.

Morsi is being held “preventively” by the military. Senior army officials say he might face formal charges over accusations made by his opponents.