Egypt - A Strategic Partner for the EU

In the most populous Arab nation, Egypt's newly elected officials are working to recapture their country's old role of regional leader, tarnished under the previous regime. The country's political and economic potential is still constrained by the complexity of its transition from authoritarian rule to democracy. After decades of government largely influenced by the military, a new era of political leaders are seeking their political direction. These politicians— for the most part Islamists — enjoy a clear mandate, garnered in a series of free and fair elections. It is essential that the political transition process continue, and that new democratic institutions be established. Egypt's fledgling democracy must be consolidated in a new constitution, also approved by the Egyptian people. Fundamental human rights and the equality of all citizens must be guaranteed, and economic growth jump-started. The EU is Egypt's first trading partner, and the EU would benefit from a greater political alliance with Egypt. Egypt's success in mediating a cease-fire between Hamas and Israel has underscored its role as a principal power in a region profoundly altered by the Arab Awakening. Egypt is a strategic partner for the European Union, and the Union should assume a more palpable presence in the country, deepen its political dialogue and support Egypt's democratic transition and socio-economic development.