WASHINGTON: The importance and results of the current transitional period in Egypt should not be underestimated, said Secretary of States Deputy William Burns, who noted that Egypt has been leading the Arab world economically, and politically over a long period of time. Egypt could provide a very strong example when it starts the elections in the upcoming month. Burns' remarks was made on Friday November 18 during the annual banquet of the Middle East Institute on ‘Supporting processes of democratization and economic chances in the changing Middle East.' "The successful parliamentary elections, in spite of all efforts it needs, is considered a first step," he added. “For Egypt's sake, the presidential elections should follow the parliamentary ones and be followed by steps to protecting democratic principles.” Economically, Burns said the traditional aid, regardless of its generosity, is not enough. He highlighted the necessity of helping Egypt, Tunisia, and Libya to enable individuals to adopt their economic and political choices and to develop the middle class. There were strong rejections against the Egyptian and Tunisian revolutions, with prosperity limited to very small social bracket. To that he said, "The U.S. and EU should think and work more to open trade and investment throughout the Middle Eastern region." As head of the Eight Group Countries in the upcoming year, the U.S. will keep a high-level of concern to those transitions and the necessity of economic integration in the Middle East and North Africa, Burns continued. The future will be difficult as all Middle Eastern nations will face transitions and challenges. He noted if there are deals with historical challenges from the Arab-Israeli peace to the regional security and enhancement of economic chances, the people have a joint case with aspirations of initiative among partners of the region and the entire world, the upcoming years will promise great possible hopes.
