Brussels, 11/04/2011 (Agence Europe) - European Commission President José Manuel Barroso will travel to Tunis on Tuesday 12 April where he intends to deliver a “clear message” to the Tunisian people, complementing those sent by Catherine Ashton and other members of the Commission who have already made clear the EU's willingness to help Tunisia in its political reforms and electoral preparations.
A support plan for Tunisia has been agreed and may very well be officially unveiled during Barroso's visit. “Europe stands four square with you”, Barroso said in a statement before his departure. “Tunisia stands at the head of the movement for freedom and democracy in the Arab world, and it is our responsibility to support these historic reforms”. The EU, he went on, “is determined to make this quantum leap with our southern neighbours. To those who wish to continue along the path of reform, we offer a Partnership for democracy and shared prosperity. We can give them targeted support to strengthen democracy and human rights, a close partnership with civil society and great support for inclusive economic growth. Tunisia was the first country to begin this process of transition. I would like it to be the first example of the new generation of this Partnership. Europe is ready take up this historic challenge”. (F.B./transl.rt)