In an interview with Al-Masry Al-Youm, Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry commented on international reactions to the death sentence against deposed President Mohamed Morsi and other Brotherhood leaders.
Q: Has the sentence changed international positions toward Egypt?
A: We issued a statement rejecting interference in our internal affairs and our judicial system. Egypt has never objected to sentences issued by courts of other countries, even though we sometimes had reservations that we kept to ourselves.
Judicial systems vary from one country to another, not in the sense that some are wrong and some are right, but in terms of cultural and historical considerations.
Sentences are issued by courts in accordance with the laws of each country and with the confidence of the people in their judicial system.
Q: Some countries said executing Morsi will increase terrorism in the Middle East. What do you think?
A: Terrorism in the Middle East is probably supported by regional countries that like to claim they are democratic and like to criticize others. It is better for those countries to stop supporting terrorists with arms and funds.
Q: What do you think of Turkey’s reaction?
A: We are tired of Turkey’s repeated statements. Actually, we do not give it any importance.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
