'Road map for talks' in Egypt

Egyptian opposition groups have described a meeting with Vice President Omar Suleiman as positive.

But initial talks have done nothing specific to meet protesters' demands for a complete political overhaul in Egypt.

The government said the sides had agreed to draft a road map for talks. A statement after the meeting indicated President Hosni Mubarak would stay in power to oversee changes, which is likely to anger protesters in Cairo's Tahrir Square demanding he leave now.

A cabinet spokesman said: "Representatives from all political parties, civil societies and the council of Wise Men met with Vice President Omar Suleimen today and agreed to draft a road map."

He said the meeting did not include the views of youth activists, who have been the driving force of protests against Mubarak's 30-year rule.

Abdel Monem Aboul Fotouh, a senior member of the opposition Muslim Brotherhood which joined the talks despite the fact it is officially banned, said the government statement represented "good intentions but does not include any solid changes".

Mr Foutoh called on Mr Mubarak to issue presidential decrees to dissolve the parliament, release all political detainees and end the state of emergency.

He said: "Until then, the youth will remain on the streets and at the same time, discussions will continue."