Brussels, 20/01/2014 (Agence Europe) - On 19 January, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Catherine Ashton congratulated the Egyptian people and authorities responsible for the successful organisation of the constitutional referendum, which was held on 14 and 15 January, and which passed off “in a largely orderly manner”. Ashton noted the turnout rate, which has been estimated at 32.9%, a fact “that may be the result of events ahead of the referendum which the authorities will have to look into more closely for the process ahead” and also noted that the fact that the vast majority of the votes cast - 98.1% - were in favour “constitutes a clear endorsement of the draft constitution”. She went on to say that, although the EU is not in a position to make a thorough assessment of the conduct of the referendum or verify alleged irregularities, “these do not appear to have fundamentally affected the outcome”.
Ashton also “strongly” regrets the violent clashes linked to the referendum, leading to deaths and injuries on all sides in protests.
Welcoming the fact that the new constitution enshrines fundamental rights and freedoms, “including freedom of expression, assembly and women's rights”, Ashton stressed that “all existing and future legislation will have to be in compliance with the new constitution”, which she expects to be applied “in a way that gives full effect to civilian preeminence”. “I trust the authorities will move forward with the constitutional roadmap and organise elections as quickly as possible, leading to a fair representation of different political views in the future parliament, accountability for the government and state institutions, and greater security and prosperity for all Egyptians”, she went on to state.
Ministers concerned at the lack of dialogue
Upon arrival at the Foreign Affairs Council, British Secretary of State William Hague stressed that the “restrictions of the political space for the opposition are a problem”. His Swedish counterpart, Carl Bildt, expressed concern for human rights is the political situation. “There is a growing concern within the EU at developments in Egypt”, he explained. Belgian Minister Didier Reynders explained that over and above the results, “we must ensure that there is a genuine political dialogue between all parties”. He said that starting this dialogue back up again is “a big problem” which remains to be resolved, or “we will not be able to reach a solution”. (CG/transl.fl)