President Obama spoke only a few words about Egypt at the start of an unrelated speech in Michigan today, yet what came out of his mouth said so much about Egypt's future and its relationship with the United States.
"I just want to say that we are following today's events in Egypt very closely. And we'll have more to say as this plays out. But what is absolutely clear is that we are witnessing history unfold. It's a moment of transformation that's taking place because the people of Egypt are calling for change," Obama said.
"They've turned out in extraordinary numbers, representing all ages and all walks of life, but it's young people who've been at the forefront -- a new generation, your generation, who want their voices to be
heard. And so going forward, we want those young people and we want all Egyptians to know America will continue to do everything that we can support an orderly and genuine transition to democracy in Egypt," Obama continued.
"Now as we watch what's taking place, we're also reminded that we live in an interconnected world. What happens across the globe has an impact on each and every one of us," Obama added, just before announcing his plan to expand high-speed broadband.
Those few lines translated into "diplo speak" essentially were a signal to Egypt's military leaders and establishment that the U.S. checks are still going to flow, as long as the pro-democracy protesters are not harmed and democratic reforms are put in place. The U.S. provides Egypt with at least $1.3 billion a year.
For two weeks sources have disclosed that U.S. military officials have assured their Egyptian counterparts that the U.S. will not cut off the much-needed revenue stream. "They've been telling them 'You will get paid. Protect the protesters, and you will get paid,'" said a source with deep military connections.
Obama made the remarks as the world waited to hear from doomed Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak.
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