"The departure of Hosni Mubarak signals the transition towards a pluralistic democracy responding to the aspirations of the Egyptian people", said Ioannis Kasoulides MEP, Vice-Chairman of the EPP Group responsible for Foreign Affairs, following the adoption of the Resolution on the situation in Egypt by the plenary of the European Parliament.

In his intervention in plenary, Ioannis Kasoulides MEP stressed the responsibility the Egyptian Armed Forces now have towards leading their country, for a short period of time, to a genuine democracy, rule of law, independent judiciary, good governance and accountability in suspected cases of corruption.

"The Military Leadership is cautioned not to disappoint the youth that was at the forefront of the demonstrations, representatives of whom should be called to play their role in building democracy during the transition", Mr Kasoulides continued.

Ioannis Kasoulides concluded his intervention in plenary emphasising the message given by the Egyptian people to the whole Arab world. "The Arab countries are our partners; we have no intention to patronise nor impose anything from the outside. The message though for them, as sent by the Egyptians and the Tunisians, is REFORM and reform NOW. Democratise, govern well, fight corruption or face the wrath of the people", he said.

The Resolution adopted by the plenary of the European Parliament on the situation in Egypt expresses its solidarity with the Egyptian people, applauds their courage and determination and strongly condemns the violence and disproportionate force used against protesters.

For further information:
Ioannis KASOULIDES MEP, Tel: +33-3-88175155
Evangelia Mitsopoulou, EPP Group Press & Communications Service, Tel: +32-475-751574

Notes to Editors:
The EPP Group is by far the largest political group in the European Parliament with 265 Members.