Germany offered the embattled Arab leader refuge
BERLIN: If Germany can make a constructive contribution to bring about a peaceful transition in Egypt by enabling Mubarak to travel to this country, “then we should take him, if he wants,” said deputy parliamentary leader of Merkel’s Christian Democratic Union, Andreas Schockenhoff.
Elke Hoff, security policy spokesperson of coalition partner Free Democratic Party, said she would welcome Mubarak’s early departure for Germany if it helps to stabilise the situation in Egypt. “This is not a political asylum,” she added.
Mass-circulated Bild newspaper said the German government’s position is that it does not want to force 82-year-old Mubarak into an exile in this country. However, in the event of a medical treatment, it will enable him to travel to this country.
If Mubarak leaves the country for medical treatment in Germany, The New York Times had earlier reported about secret negotiations between the US government and the Egyptian military leadership on whether the current uprising against the government could be brought to an end.
An “extended medical check-up” in Germany is one of the options being considered for a honourable departure for the president after more than three decades in power.
A possible destination for the president will be the University Hospital in Heidelberg, where he has been a regular visitor.
(News Editor- Naushin Fatima Khan)
