Canada closes embassy in Cairo, citing reports of violence in Egypt

Canada is closing its embassy in Cairo because it is deeply concerned by reports of violence in Egypt.

Rick Roth, a spokesman for Canada's foreign affairs minister, said Tuesday dangerous divisions within Egypt threaten its stability and damage its long-term economic prospects.

Roth says Canada calls on all parties to remain calm and participate in the political process.

Canada first announced the closing on twitter. Roth later confirmed it to The Associated Press.

Massive protests seeking to oust the Egyptian leader Mohammed Morsi have led the military to issue an ultimatum requiring him to find a political solution by Wednesday or the generals would seek their own way to end the chaos.