Brussels, 28/01/2014 (Agence Europe) - It was both in a personal capacity and as president of the European Council that Herman Van Rompuy sent his congratulations to Tunisia.
In a message to the Tunisian president on 28 January, and through the president to the members of the Tunisian Parliament - who adopted a constitution described as a model for the Arab and Muslim world - Van Rompuy sent his “warmest congratulations” on this “historic victory”. This is a victory “not only for Tunisia, but also for all those who are fighting for democracy, fundamental rights and freedoms in the world and in your region”, he writes. “You have shown the importance of creating a consensus in the interest of the whole of society, the importance of maintaining the effort and dialogue despite the numerous difficulties and the extremism of some, as well as the sacrifices, which are involved on the road to democracy”.
He added that “on this day of joy and hope, I would like to reconfirm the European Union's friendship and support to you. We will remain at your side” (our translation throughout). (FB/transl.fl)