Brussels, 16/09/2011 (Agence Europe) - On Friday 19 September EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Catherine Ashton welcomed the Yemeni Vice-President's intention to invite the ruling party and the opposition to come together and reach agreement. Vice-President Hadi has been granted the power to sign on behalf of President Saleh. “I support all efforts that will lead to the rapid signing of an Agreement”, Ashton said. She said that the key components of an agreement were in place, having been set out by the Gulf Cooperation Council initiative and other international and Yemeni-led efforts: early elections; a Government of National Unity; and security arrangements which will provide stability across the whole country. Ashton stated that she would work closely in the coming weeks with the EU Member States and with partners from the international community, “to offer support for a constructive Yemeni political process, which meets the aspirations and needs of the Yemeni people”. (CG/transl.rt)