France denounces Egyptian sentences against journalists

France on Monday denounced Egyptian court's mass death sentences of Muslim Brotherhood supporters, and up to ten-year jail terms against journalists, calling for the respect of press freedom, freedom of expression and gathering.
Affirming "(France's) opposition to death penalty wherever and in all circumstances," the Foreign Affairs Ministry's spokesperson Romain Nadal expressed concerns after an Egyptian court confirmed death sentence against 183 supporters of Muslim Brotherhood who participated in last August's protests.
At a press briefing, he also expressed worries over the jail sentences against three journalists of Qatar-based TV channel of Al-Jazeera.
"It is important that Egyptian authorities ensure (journalists) protection and guarantee a fair trial to defendants based on an independent investigation and respectful of the rights of defense, in accordance with the Egyptian constitution and international standards," Nadal said.
France also reiterated its support for transition process in Egypt to introduce democratic and civil institutions guaranteeing the rule of law and civil freedom, he added.
Australian Peter Greste, Egyptian-Canadian Mohamed Fadel Fahmy and producer Baher Mohamed, have been accused of helping the currently blacklisted Muslim Brotherhood.