Published: January 25, 2012

Statement by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on the oneyear anniversary of the Egyptian uprising on 25 January

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BRUSSELS, Kingdom of Belgium, January 25, 2012/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

"I wish to congratulate the Egyptian people on the one-year anniversary of their revolution.

Egyptian men and women, young and old, representing the whole of society, showed admirable courage in calling for their legitimate human rights and fundamental freedoms. My thoughts go to those who gave their life for freedom, dignity and a better future.

The year has been turbulent, but building real and deep democracy demands sustained effort and commitment. The first session of the democratically elected People's Assembly on Monday is a concrete step to a constitutional, democratic and modern Egypt.

I also welcome the military council's decision to partially put an end to the state of emergency as of today, and call for it to be lifted completely as soon as possible.

I am looking forward to the continuation of Egypt's democratic transition, allowing for a transfer to civilian rule as early as possible.

I hope that Egypt's democratically elected leadership will push further fundamental socioeconomic reforms, allowing the Egyptian people to prosper and enjoy their full democratic rights."