Brussels, 20/03/2013 (Agence Europe) - In 2012, Egypt continued its democratic transition by achieving important steps, such as good organisation of elections, the end of the state of emergency and moving towards a civilian government, but the transition came with huge setbacks like the dissolution of the Assembly of the People and no progress on human rights, explained the European Commission on Wednesday 20 March as it published a report on Egypt and its constitution. The report stresses Egypt's role in the Middle East peace process, Palestinian reconciliation and the search for a solution to the Syrian crisis.
In 2013, the EU urges Egypt to make progress by ensuring inclusive dialogue with all political parties and other players to ensure the constitution belongs to all Egyptians and provides human rights and fundamental freedoms. Egypt is urged to hold fair and transparent general elections and stop sending civilians to military courts. The Commission also wants Egypt to introduce the conditions for an independent and active community of non-govenmental organisations to thrive. In terms of the economy, Cairo is invited to implement economic reforms to ensure macroeconomic stability and improve the management of the public purse. It is also asked to prepare for talks on a full free-trade zone with the European Union. (CG/transl.fl)