20110211
presstv
World leaders have reacted to President Mubarak's refusal to relinquish power, calling for a transparent, orderly and peaceful transition of power in the country.

The Secretary-General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon has urged the Egyptian government to address the legitimate demands of the people, expressing readiness to help the country in the process.

US President Barack Obama has sharply criticized Mubarak's decision to cling to power saying that Cairo must spell out a clear path to democracy and take up "concrete" change in the country.

The European Union led by, France, Britain and Germany, also called for change in Egypt, urging that "the demands and expectations of the Egyptian people must be met."

German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle has said that Mubarak's decision to cling to power was not “the hoped for step forward,” saying international community is concerned about the situation in Egypt.

British Foreign Secretary William Hague also called for an "urgent but orderly transition" in Egypt.

Mubarak announced in a televised address on Thursday that he will not step down and transferred some authorities to his deputy, Omar Suleiman, who used to be the head of the military intelligence.

Protesters have rejected the decision, saying they want a civilian government and not a military regime.

The Egyptian army has threatened unspecified action if protesters refuse the transfer of power.

Despite warnings, demonstrators have gathered in Liberation Square in Cairo in the eighteenth day of protests on Friday calling for the resignation of Mubarak and his deputy.

Protesters are planning a so-called 'march of millions' mass demonstration to the presidential palace.