Egypt finmin resignation rejected

Egyptian Coptic Christians carry coffins as they make their way to Abassaiya Cathedral during a mass funeral for victims of sectarian clashes with soldiers and riot police, after a protest about an attack on a church in southern Egypt, in Cairo October 10, 2011. Egypt's Coptic Christians turned their fury against the army on Monday after at least 25 people were killed when troops broke up a protest, deepening public doubts about the military's ability to steer the country peacefully towards democracy. [Photo/Agencies]

CAIRO - Egyptian Finance Minister Hazem el-Beblawi said on Tuesday the country's army rulers had rejected his resignation and he did not know how to respond.

Beblawi tendered his resignation after clashes on Sunday between the army and Christian demonstrators in Cairo left at least 25 people dead. He denied reports that he then withdrew the decision to step down.  

"I did not withdraw my resignation. The higher (military) council rejected it ... and I am now in a difficult situation... I am confused," Beblawi told Reuters.

"I took this decision because of the Maspero situation and security, not because of economic policy," Beblawi said by telephone, referring to the area of Cairo where Sunday's clashes took place.

Asked whether he was aware of any other resignations in Egypt's interim cabinet, he said: "I don't know".