11 February 2011, Male'-The Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Maldives, Minister of Housing and Environment H.E. Mr. Mohamed Aslam, today welcomed developments in Egypt and congratulated the people of the country for demonstrating that "a belief in democracy, freedom and human rights are not the possession of one country or civilisation, but are rather universal and inalienable values shared by all mankind".
President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt today stepped down following weeks of protests by anti-government demonstrators. Soon after the pro-human rights protests began, H.E. President Nasheed of the Maldives was one of the first world leaders to call on President Mubarak to step down, and for liberal democracy to be introduced in the country.
"We wake up today in a new world" said the Minister. "It is no exaggeration to say that the events of the past few weeks are as significant as the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. We are witnessing the slow roll-back of dictatorships and autocracies, and their replacement by government based on consent and society based on tolerance and dignity for all".
The Acting Foreign Minister went on to offer the Maldives' full support to Egypt as the country begins the difficult process of democratic transition.
ENDS
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