Brussels, 27/02/2012 (Agence Europe) - EU foreign ministers, meeting on Monday 27 February, called on the Egyptian authorities to do everything possible to resolve, “in a timely and constructive manner”, the current situation with regard to civil society organisations which have been subject to restrictions and have been brought to trial. “An active and independent NGO community is fundamental in any democratic society”, the Council stated, making clear its intention to monitor closely the ongoing legal proceedings against NGO staff. Ahead of the Council meeting, EU High Representative Catherine Ashton said that it is “obviously within the responsibility of the government to ensure that there is a proper framework in which these organisations are allowed to work”. Ministers also underlined “the importance of transfer of power to civilian rule as soon as possible” and encouraged the authorities to “establish a definitive timetable for the holding of presidential elections” and to ensure the protection of civilians.
The Council welcomed the elections to both the People's Assembly and the Shura Council, and the swearing in of a new parliament by the end of February. Ministers also looked forward to the appointment of the Constitutional Committee responsible for the drafting of a new constitution. They emphasised “the importance of an inclusive and transparent drafting process, representative of all elements of the Egyptian society, including persons belonging to minorities”. (CG/transl.rt)