Austin: Should Western governments cut off aid to Egypt?
Former Senator from British Columbia, special advisor to Stern Partners Inc
The clear answer is no.
A destabilized and chaotic Egypt is not in the interests of Egyptians or most others in the region, not to mention the interests of Western democratic governments. The possibility of a pluralistic governance system in Egypt is at stake.
The first requirement is the construction of an orderly society and the second is the willingness of those who have no choice but to live together to construct the modalities of their relationship. At this time continuing support is vital to enable a working level of stability to be put in place.
This is not about choosing sides. Stability is required by all interests. Order comes before peace and good government.