A senior Russian senator believes the Egyptian military will start a dialogue with protesters following the departure of President Hosni Mubarak.
Mubarak stepped down as leader on Friday handing power to the high command of the armed forces, after 18 days of mass protest.
"I think the army will start a dialogue with the opposition and human rights institutes, although this dialogue will not be easy," Mikhail Margelov, head of the upper house's foreign relations committee, told RIA Novosti on Saturday.
He said Mubarak's resignation was "timely."
Tens of thousands of people celebrated the end of Mubarak's 30 years of power into the night, waving flags, chanting slogans and dancing.
While people seem to be giving little immediate thought to what is in stall for them, world leaders including U.S. President Barack Obama urged the military leaders to ensure a move to democratic rule.
Margelov said the new administration would start by "clearing up the base" for reform.
MOSCOW, February 12 (RIA Novosti)
