Kerry hails Tunisia's new constitution, government as historic milestone

US Secretary of State John Kerry stressed here Wednesday that Tunisia's ratification of a new democratic constitution and the installation of an independent government to lead the country towards new elections are "historic milestones in Tunisia's democratic transition." Kerry said in a statement while Tunisia's transition to democracy is "not yet complete, these are very important steps. They are proof positive that Tunisia's democratic transition can succeed." "Tunisia's new constitution enshrines universal human rights for all Tunisians ... and it will allow the Tunisian people to realize the aspirations they expressed during their revolution three years ago: democracy, rule of law, personal security, and economic opportunity," he remarked. He affirmed that the installation of a new, independent government under the leadership of Prime Minister Mehdi Jomaa "is an important step to ensure that the country has competent and non-partisan leadership during the period leading to the next election." He noted that he looks forward to working with the Tunisian Prime Minister and his colleagues "during this critical period." He added that the US also welcomes the establishment of the Independent Elections Commission, saying "we encourage the new government to move quickly to set a date for early elections so that Tunisian citizens can choose their new leaders and determine the country's future." "The United States will continue to support Tunisia's transition to an enduring democracy in which the rights of all Tunisians are respected and protected," the US top diplomat remarked.