Brussels, 25/04/2008 (Agence Europe) - EU High Representative for the CFSP said he was encouraged by the latest political developments in Chad. In a press release on 24 April, Javier Solana welcomed the appointment of new Prime Minister Youssouf Saleh Abbas and the formation of a government, which includes a substantial number of members of the political opposition (the opposition coalition holds four ministries). Only enhanced political dialogue, brought about by the agreement of 13 August 2007 (and supposed to lead to democratic elections in 2009), can bring any sustainable civil order back to Chad and stiffen the foundations of the Chadian state, he said. He called on all Chadians to join the process, in the interest not only of Chad but of regional stability.
Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Development Louis Michel, has welcomed this progress as a sincere and immediate commitment to work for the well-being of Chad and the Chadians, and he confirmed that the European Commission would continue to support inclusive dialogue to ensure the necessary conditions for the holding of free and transparent elections. (A.B./A.N.)