Brussels, 06/12/2012 (Agence Europe) - Following “with concern” the unfolding of events in Egypt and the clashes between demonstrators, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton called on the evening of Wednesday 5 December for “calm and restraint on all sides”. She also called on all relevant parties “to engage urgently in an inclusive dialogue based on consensus and joint ownership”. “It is of the utmost importance that Egypt continues the democratic transition that is has embarked upon and that confidence and trust in the process be restored”, Ashton added, stating that the EU urges Egypt to continue along this path.
She said that the EU-Egypt taskforce of 13-14 November established a new era in their relationship “based on the overarching values of 'respect for social justice, socio-economic development, rule of law, human rights and good governance'”.
The clashes took place between supporters of President Morsi and opposition who demonstrated against his decision to grant himself additional powers. The clashes, which took place in front of the president's palace, claimed five lives and left more than 350 wounded. (CG/transl.fl)