Obama speaks with Saudi king about Egypt crisis, urges 'orderly transition'

WASHINGTON, D.C.: U.S. President Barack Obama on Wednesday spoke by telephone with Saudi King Abdullah to discuss the political crisis in Egypt, the White House said.

The White House said Obama spoke with Abdullah and "emphasized the importance of taking immediate steps toward an orderly transition that is meaningful, lasting, legitimate, and responsive to the aspirations of the Egyptian people." The U.S. President also reaffirmed the long-term commitment of the United States to peace and security in the region.

Egypt plunged into chaos late last month when hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets in Cairo and other major cities to demand the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak. Some of them clashed with security forces, killing as many as 300 people and injuring more thousands more.

(BNO NEWS )