Ashton concerned about violent incidents at Abbassiya Cathedral

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton voiced deep concern about Sunday's violent incidents that took place in front of the Saint Mark's Coptic Orthodox Cathedral in Cairo's Abbassiya district that left one person dead and 84 others injured. In a press release, she said: "Today in Egypt I have had a series of meetings with the President and political leaders about the political and economic situation in the country. But tonight I am extremely worried about the violent incidents at the Abbassiya Coptic Cathedral in Cairo. On hearing the news I immediately contacted the Presidency, strongly urging restraint and for the security forces to control the situation," she said. She added "I understand the President has spoken with the Head of the Coptic Church and has condemned the violence. My thoughts are with the victims and their families"