Egypt's Morsi Says Assad Must Go

Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi agrees that there can be no political solution for Syria unless President Bashar Assad leaves power, the French presidency said Wednesday.

In a statement issued following a telephone conversation between Morsi and French President Francois Hollande, the Elysee said: "The two heads of state mainly raised the situation in Syria and observed that no political solution is possible without the departure of Bashar Assad."

During the call, Hollande reiterated "his commitment to provide effective support for the Syrian opposition, including on the ground".

He also said he "hoped that, at the appropriate moment, it (the opposition) can form a provisional, inclusive and representative government, so that the new Syria can have legitimate authorities."

The two heads of state agreed to meet soon and to maintain close contact on Syria and other topics of common interest.