Sunday, January 12, 2014

Hagel, Al-Sisi Discuss Egypt’s Constitutional Referendum



American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 12, 2014 – Defense Secretary Hagel Chuck Hagel today emphasized to Egyptian Minister of Defense General Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi the importance of the Jan.14-15 constitutional referendum in Egypt.

In a statement summarizing the telephone conversation between the two defense leaders, Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby, Pentagon press secretary, said they discussed the importance of the constitutional referendum for Egypt's overall political transition. Hagel, Kirby added, stressed the importance of a transparent referendum in which all Egyptians have the opportunity to cast their vote freely.

In addition, the press secretary added, Hagel also urged the minister to ensure that international and domestic observers have full access to the proceedings.

Hagel and Al-Sisi reaffirmed their commitment to strong U.S.-Egyptian relations, Kirby said, and the secretary wished General Al-Sisi a blessed Mawlid al-Nabi, an Islamic holiday.