25/07/2012 (Agence Europe) - Ashton congratulates new Egyptian prime minister. EU High representative for Foreign Affairs Catherine Ashton offered her congratulations on Tuesday 24 July to Hesham Qandil on his appointment as prime minister of Egypt and wished him every success. “His appointment is another step forward in the country's democratic transition”, said Ashton, looking forward to working with President Mohammed Morsi and the new government “which I trust will be inclusive and representative of Egypt's diversity”. Making the point that Egypt faces many social, political and economic challenges, Ashton said that the EU is are ready to work with Cairo and to provide assistance “at this crucial time in Egypt's history, working in close partnership with Egyp's new democratic authorities”. (CG/transl.rt)