It is in the African Union's interest to prove its ability to carry out its first peacekeeping operation. Its withdrawal would not send a positive message.

The speed at which the ship sank and the fact there were not enough life rafts on board confirm that there was a (safety) problem but we cannot anticipate the results of the investigation.

President (Hosni) Mubarak wants an immediate probe into the causes of the accident of the Al-Salam 98 ferry and guarantees that other similar ships comply with safety regulations.

But we cannot anticipate on the results of the investigation.

We call for Iran to show more flexibility and cooperation, and we call for a continuation of dialogue with Iran.

I can assure you that the president doesn't have any plans to go anywhere outside Egypt until the end of this year.