Leaders of the Middle East believe revolts are likely to continue in the region following the recent uprising in Egypt, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister and envoy to the region Alexander Saltanov said on Sunday.
December riots in Tunisia, which ousted President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, ignited a wave of anti-government protests throughout the Arab world. Several hundred people took to the streets of Cairo, Sana'a and Algiers demanding democratic reforms and change of power.
In Egypt, military leadership took over as President Hosni Mubarak, 82, who ruled the country for almost 30 years, stepped down on Friday after 18 days of heated protests demanding his resignation.
Saltanov is currently paying a visit to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of his tour of the other Middle East countries, including Egypt, Syria and Jordan during which he delivered the message from Russian President Dmitry Medvedev.
"The contacts during our visit showed that at least some regional leaders do not expect a swift way out from this phase of development in the Middle East. The leaders of these countries and some others believe the process will gain momentum," Saltanov said.
The Russian diplomat said despite the political instability in the Middle East, Moscow will continue providing assistance to the region, including in resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
RIYADH, February 13 (RIA Novosti)
