Brussels, 14/01/2013 (Agence Europe) - Noting “the worrying developments in the last weeks that led to an anticipated adoption of the new constitution, by referendum,” in Egypt, the president of the European Council, Herman Van Rompuy, has “encouraged” President Morsi to intensify his efforts “to ensure consensus building, inclusiveness, and dialogue among all parties concerned” in order to achieve genuine progress towards deep and sustainable democracy. Following their meeting in Cairo, Van Rompuy added that the president and the country's social and political forces had an “extraordinary task” and “an enormous responsibility” in developing national dialogue and securing a better and democratic future.
Van Rompuy said that “the organisation and holding of the forthcoming legislative elections - even if all electoral processes have their own dynamics - should also be used to advance in this direction”. He also explained that he would like to send an electoral observer mission to the country but made clear that it would have to be officially invited by Egypt.
He emphasised that “a regain of political trust is also crucial to address the economic situation. Political stability and a clear legislative framework are vital to bring back investors, trade partners and tourists”. Van Rompuy stated that the EU, EIB and EBRD had offered €5 billion in subsidies and loans and was eager to honour its commitment in this respect. He also pointed out that some of the funds were expected to work in tandem with the IMF assistance that Egypt is currently negotiating.
Van Rompuy and Morsi also discussed the return of Egyptian assets, as well as the situation in the region, including the Middle East, Syria and Mali. (CG/transl.fl)