EU congratulates Tunisia on adoption of new constitution

The European Union Monday congratulated Tunisia on the adoption of the new constitution as "an important step in the country's democratic transition."I commend the joint efforts of authorities, political actors and civil society (in Tunisia)," said EU High Representative for foreign affairs and security policy Catherine Ashton in a statement.She noted that Tunisia has reacted positively to the internal political challenges and took the initiative suitable to its own realities, which allowed it to stay the course of the transitional national dialogue."The constitution will ensure the promotion and protection of human rights of the citizens and the democratic legitimacy of its institutions," stressed Ashton.The EU foreign policy chief also welcomed the appointment of Mehdi Jomaa to the post of Prime Minister, and called on the new government to make all efforts to organise as soon as possible inclusive, transparent and credible elections."The Tunisian people can count on the support of the European Union and its commitment to deepen our privileged partnership," added the statement.