"The fact that demonstrators and counter-demonstrators were allowed to confront each other and come into contact with each other, and allegations that the counter-demonstration was well orchestrated and organised by people representing the authorities, constitutes an extremely deplorable situation, which has to end at once", said Ioannis Kasoulides MEP, Vice-Chairman of the EPP Group in the European Parliament.

"At present, Hosni Mubarak is still the President of Egypt. For as long as he stays on, he has the personal responsibility for the security and safety of all the citizens of Egypt, no matter if their political opinions are in favour or against his departure from office. This responsibility means that President Mubarak is accountable, not only towards Egyptian law, but also towards international law. The army, deployed in the streets of the major cities, is also responsible for this new situation and must separate the two opposing groups of demonstrators immediately", he continued.

"The international community is closely monitoring the situation and should not hesitate to ask the Attorney General of the International Criminal Court to investigate the matter if the situation continues to deterioate", concluded Mr Kasoulides.

For further information:
Ioannis KASOULIDES MEP, Tel: +32-2-2845155
Peter Adler, EPP Group Press & Communications Service, Tel: +32-474-203005

Notes to Editors:
The EPP Group is by far the largest political group in the European Parliament with 265 Members.