20110322
Xinhua
CAIRO, March 21 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said Monday that his visit to Egypt was meant to support the transition period in the country, referring to great challenges for Egypt's economic reforms.

"What is happening in Egypt has a serious impact over the Arab region and other peaceful revolutions," said Ban in a press conference held in Cairo.

Each country is responsible for its legal process towards change, Ban stated, adding that the UN is ready to present Egypt its best experiences and practices for successful transformation.

Ban asserted that people has the right to express their views whether positive or negative, saying "I am ready to accept pro and anti-UN opinion, but it should guarantee the freedom of expression. "

"What is happening in Libya was regarded as crimes against the international human laws and the international human rights," Ban added.

At a press conference Monday morning with Arab League (AL) chief Amr Moussa, Ban urged the Libyan authorities to immediately end violence against civilians, saying it is vital that the world speak as one on the issue of Libya.

He also urged Yemen to end violence against civilians and start economic, political and social dialogues, and called on all sides in Bahrain to keep restraint and respect human rights.

Ban arrived in Egypt Saturday after meeting in Paris with European, Arab and African leaders to discuss "ways to move forward to protect the people of Libya" following the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1973 on Thursday to impose a no-fly zone in Libya.

He left Egypt for Tunisia late Monday.