Schulz on the first anniversary of the beginning of the Egyptian revolution - 25 January

On the eve of the first anniversary of the beginning of the Egyptian revolution (25 January 2011), the President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz stated:

"On this anniversary, I would like to pay tribute to the Egyptian people for their courage, their vigilance and passion for democracy.

Elections have so far taken place in a relatively peaceful and organised manner. I hope that all political forces will continue to be given the opportunity to compete fairly in the upcoming polls.

I congratulate the Members of the People's Assembly and the Speaker Dr Saad Al-Katatny on their election. I look forward to discuss personally bilateral relations between our institutions.

I support the new legitimate representatives of the Egyptian people in their task of leading Egypt towards the establishment of accountable and transparent institutions. I call on them to swiftly address people's expectations on social justice and economic development.

I urge the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces to refrain from undermining the work of civil society organisations and to guarantee freedom of expression. Both are crucial preconditions for a successful democratic transition."