Vilnius, 28/11/2013 (Agence Europe) - On 27 November, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton announced the signature, with Egypt's Deputy Prime Minister Ziad Bahaa El-Deen, of a €90 million financing agreement to support education and the poorest populations. This aid follows on from the commitment of the Foreign Affairs Council of 21 August 2013 to continue European aid for Egypt's socio-economic development and for the support of civil society (see EUROPE 10904).
A total of €60 million will be allocated to improving the access of children- “especially girls” - to education and to fighting against child labour in the poorest areas, “including support to community service delivery through non-state actors”, Ashton stated in a press release. Those most in need will also benefit from improvements in unplanned housing, which represents a significant share of the built-up area in the Greater Cairo region, thanks to €20 million in aid.
The funding comes from the SPRING 2011-2012 programme, under the European neighbourhood and partnership instrument, and it was agreed during the task force meetings in November 2012 (see EUROPE 10730).
Ashton concerned about dispersal of protesters. Ashton also took advantage of her meeting to speak about the “worrying” reports on the security forces' violent dispersal and arrests during protests on 26 November against military trials. A new law entered into force on 24 November which forbids demonstrations and gatherings that have not been authorised in advance. While recognising that Egypt's stability and the people's need to live in a secure environment are important, Ashton stated that it was essential for fundamental human rights to be “respected at all times”. “This is particularly relevant in the context of Egypt's ongoing constitutional process which should result in a constitution safeguarding the rights and obligations of all Egyptians”, she added. Bahaa El-Deen briefed Ashton on the implementation of the political road map according to which a democratic and civil government should be in place by summer 2014. (CG/transl.fl)