22/12/2003 (Agence Europe) - On 22 December, the Presidency of the Council of the EU issued the following declaration: 'The European Union expresses its satisfaction at the fact that the process of signature collection aimed at the celebration of recall referenda, as provided for by the Venezuelan Constitution, took place in an atmosphere of tolerance and restraint. The Venezuelan people have confirmed their readiness to implement the political agreement signed on 29 May 2003 by the government and the Coordinadora Democratica, in order to promote a pacific, democratic and constitutional solution to the political crisis. The EU trusts that the next steps of this process will remain within the rule of law and democratic principles. The EU calls on all parties to fully respect the impartial role of the Consejo Nacional Electoral in complying with its duties and to abide by its decisions taken in accordance with the constitutional framework. The EU welcomes the cooperation the CNE has established with the Organisation of American States, which reaffirms the commitment of the International Community in contributing to the democratic development of Venezuela. The EU reasserts its offer to provide financial and technical assistance for the implementation of the agreement of 29 May.'