German financial aid to Egypt is linked to the progress the Egyptian government achieves toward democratic change, according to German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle.

Westerwelle told German ARD Television, "We saw horrible images of violence and destruction in Egypt over the past few days."

He called on both the government and the opposition to conduct a dialogue to bridge the gap between the two parties.

Westerwelle added that they should enjoy what he described as "strategic patience," and that both sides should be able to air what they are critical of, while at the same time agreeing not to suspend open dialogue with one another.

Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi is currently visiting Germany to meet with German Chancellor Angela Merkil.