Jordan respects free, independent choice of Egyptian people: FM

The Jordanian government on Friday said it respects the choice of the Egyptian people and stressed its support for Egypt.

In a statement published by the state-run Petra news agency, Jordan's Foreign Ministry said the Arab kingdom is following up closely on the historic developments in Egypt, which represents a basic pillar for regional stability and main player in the Arab world.

The government stressed that it deeply respects the Egyptian armed forces and its national role.

The Jordanian government said Friday it is confident that the Supreme Council of the Egyptian armed forces is capable of living up to its responsibilities in running Egypt efficiently at this historic and crucial moment and that the council will ensure that Egypt continues to play a significant, constructive and pivotal role in the Arab and international arenas.

The statement said Jordan and Egypt enjoy deep and distinguished relations in different fields.

Egypt's President Hosni Mubarak stepped down and the military took charge of the country on Friday, Egypt's Vice President Omar Suleiman said Friday afternoon.

Mubarak's step came just one day after he announced that he handed power to the vice president without stepping down on Thursday night.

Source: Xinhua