Egypt's interim PM seeks to end division

CAIRO, July 20 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian interim Prime Minister Hazem al-Beblawi called on national reconciliation in his first interview on the state TV on Saturday evening, saying "It's time for agreement and consensus as the country is divided."

Beblawi said that the country is undergoing a stage of fighting and confrontation following the ouster of Islamist president Mohamed Morsi, noting that reconciliation and agreement is a must for the current stage.

"There should be no room for revenge or alienation," he said, adding that all Egyptians should resort to reconciliation.

"We are in a stage that is like a war for boosting economy, restoring security and moving forward," said the interim prime minister.

The statements of Beblawi came amid a continuous sit-in and protests nationwide by supporters of Morsi, demanding his return and referring to his removal as "a military coup."

With regards to the recent formation of the transitional government, Beblawi said that it was based on the criteria of efficiency and credibility.

Beblawi also noted that the new government initiated a ministry for transitional justice and national reconciliation to reach comprehensive stability in the country after Morsi.

"As a prime minister, I urge all ministers to avoid isolating certain groups unless those proven involved in violations," he added.

He said the transitional period requires a government with general consensus, noting political background did not govern the nomination of his ministers.

Earlier, the presidency said it offered the Muslim Brotherhood some portfolios, but the group rejected, insisting Morsi's ouster was a coup and the current government was illegitimate.

Beblawi said his government is an interim rather than a caretaker cabinet, asserting that "the current government will work to establish the foundation for the coming governments."

As for foreign relations, Beblawi said that Egypt will not achieve progress without good foreign relations with the world, stressing that his country must be open to the whole world.

He also stressed that Egypt will not lose its will to gain the U.S. aids.

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