Kerry welcomes new government in Tunis

Secretary of State John Kerry welcomed late Wednesday the establishment of a new government in Tunisia. "The United States welcomes the establishment of a new government under the leadership of Prime Minister Laarayedh. We encourage Tunisia's leaders to work together quickly to finalize a constitution that respects universal human rights, and to develop a plan for elections so Tunisians can vote on their country's future", said Kerry in a statement. "Announcing a fixed election date will provide clarity about the direction of Tunisia's democratic transition and will help stabilize the political, security, and economic situation", he added. Tunisian President, Moncef Marzouki, has sworn in a new government after the parliament approved the new cabinet of Prime Minister Ali Larayedh amidst political turmoil in the country. Kerry noted that the US looks "to the Government of Tunisia to foster an environment of justice and accountability that is conductive to a free and fair election process, including freedom of the press and access for domestic and international observers". "The United States remains a friend of the Tunisian people and will continue to support the transition to an enduring democracy in which the rights of all Tunisians are respected and protected", he concluded.