Egypt urged to start 'immediate' political transition

Five EU nations have urged an "immediate" political transition to end violent unrest in Egypt.

The joint statement was issued by Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.

Egypt's long-standing President Hosni Mubarak is facing mass protests calling for him to quit power, which erupted yesterday into violent clashes.

Medics said that pro-Mubarak forces had fired on protestors.

The Egyptian military have taken up positions between anti-government demonstrators and supporters of President Mubarak.

Soldiers did not intervene, other than firing warning shots, during attacks on the anti-government protesters yesterday by Mubarak supporters.

But hours later, soldiers carrying rifles could be seen lining up between the two sides, with several hundred other soldiers moving towards the front line.