Obama stresses full support for Egypt's transition

U.S. President Barack Obama on Monday called Hussein Tantawi, head of Egypt's Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, underscoring his full support for Egypt's transition to democracy. The two leaders agreed that Egypt's upcoming parliamentary elections, scheduled to start on Nov. 28, must be "free and fair" and be held in accordance with democratic standards, the White House said. Obama stressed that the United States supports a "strong, peaceful, prosperous and democratic Egypt that responds to the aspirations of its people," and that the outcome of the election is for the Egyptian people to decide. On Egypt's economic situation, Obama emphasized his support for "full funding" by U.S. Congress of his administration's request for assistance for Egypt, without conditions, and stressed his commitment to help Egypt secure international aid to address its economic needs, the White House said in a statement. It said the two leaders also underscored their intention to continue to cooperate closely on counter-terrorism and regional security, and Obama urged Egypt to lift the emergency law and end military trials for civilians. In a major speech on May 19, Obama called on Egypt and Tunisia, where anti-government protests toppled their long-term rulers early this year, to set "a strong example" through free and fair elections, a vibrant civil society, accountable and effective democratic institutions, and responsible regional leadership. Tunisians started to cast votes early Sunday to elect a constituent assembly tasked with writing a new constitution.