UNREST HITS ECONOMY

Egypt endured another day of halt to normal life as the protest entered the second week. Trains stopped running Monday. The internet remained shutdown on its fifth day. Banks, stock markets and most businesses were closed.

Storage racks for bread, milk, edible oil and local fruits were almost empty in Cairo's supermarkets as people tried to replenish their stores for fear that the chaos could continue and prices could rise.

Tourism, a crucial source of Egypt's revenue, was hit hard by the protest. Many tour agencies have suspended services and the EgyptAir has cancelled flights during the government-imposed curfew which has been extended from 3 p.m. (1300 GMT) to 8 a.m. ( 0600 GMT).

Some foreign firms suspended their activities due to paralyzed internet and lack of workers in the unrest.

"I have closed the factory. I don't know when the social order can be back to normal," said Zhou Jianguo, a Chinese owner of a motorbike manufacturing factory in Cairo's Nasr City. "It is so shocking that a peaceful country can suddenly fall to chaos. I'm really worried about the investment environment of Egypt."

Responding to fears of economic difficulties, newly-appointed Prime Minister Ahmed Shafiq said Tuesday the new government is committed to meeting all people's demands despite existing conflict of interests.

Banks will be open once security and stability are restored in the country, he said, adding that measures have been taken to protect banks against looting.

OPPOSITION PARTIES SEEK MORE

Despite the appointment of Egypt's first-ever vice president in 30 years and the government's offer for talks with all political forces, opposition parties said there would be no dialogue unless Mubarak resigns.

ElBaradei said Tuesday he hoped Mubarak could leave by Friday.

"I hope President Mubarak goes before this and leaves the country after 30 years of rule... I don't think he wants to see more blood," ElBaradei said.

He joined forces with the largest opposition group Muslim Brotherhood and other major political parties.

"We have already formed a coalition made up of 10 people including Mohamed ElBaradei for dialogue with the regime but only after Mubarak steps down," said Mohamed El Beltagy, a senior member of the Brotherhood.

Opposition members also called for constitutional amendments and dissolution of parliament as election results are described as "incorrect."

Experts said people would not retreat after the new cabinet was established.

"People are asking for ousting the whole regime and forming united coalition for peaceful transition," said Dr. Raffatt Sayd, head of Tagammu Party.