Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council, said he has discussed with Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi the country’s economic and political situation along with the means to solve the Syrian and Palestinian crises.
Rompuy added during a press conference held on Sunday after meeting with Mohamed Morsi that he has come to Egypt conveying a message about the EU’s hopes for the country’s success in its new democratic approach. He noted that the EU has supported the democratic transition process and challenges Egypt witnessed elaborating that the country is playing a key role in the MENA region.
The EU President noted that the union plans to support Egypt’s economy and democratic transition through providing €5 billion in forms of outstanding loans and grants in 2013.
“The European Union and associated financial institutions have offered an amount of more than 5 billion euros, or more than $6.5 bln, in grants, concessional loans and loans for a period of 2012 and 2013 to support Egypt’s democratic transition,” Rompuy told reporters.
During his meeting with President Morsi, Herman said he offered sending a delegation to supervise the coming parliamentary elections.
The EU president has told Egypt’s Islamist president that guarantees of freedoms of expression and religions are essential for attracting foreign investors and tourists.
Rompuy added that genuine democracy can be achieved only through consensus and inclusiveness. He spoke after meeting Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi, who is facing an economic crisis brought on by two years of political turmoil.
