China says Egypt's new constitution a "major step"

BEIJING, Dec. 26 (People's Daily Online) -- China is positive about the approval of Egypt's new constitution and wishes the country a smooth political transition, a Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said on Wednesday.

At a daily press conference, Hua Chunying said, "China has taken note of the passage of Egypt's new constitution. This is a major step in the country's political transition."

The remarks came after Egypt's Supreme Election Commission announced on Tuesday the country's new charter had been officially approved by 63.8 percent of voters.

About 25 million eligible voters in 17 governorates cast their vote on Saturday in the second stage of the constitutional referendum.

The first stage, held on Dec. 15, covered Cairo, Alexandria and eight other governorates, according to a republican decree issued by President Mohamed Morsi on Dec. 12.

"We expect Egypt to continue to push forward its orderly political transition and maintain political and social stability," Hua said.

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