Foreign Policy Chief in the European Union (EU) Catherine Ashton stated that the Union is following the recent developments in Egypt with deep concern. She said in a statement today that the army should accept and respect the constitutional power of the civil state. She urged conducting new elections as soon as possible. Ashton emphasized the importance of restoring the democratic institution in the country. The statement also called on the Freedom and Justice Party to participate in the reconciliation announced by the interim President of Egypt Adly Mansour. Ashton criticized the political repression and violence in Egypt, pointing out that the Egyptian people revolted for peace, dignity and social justice.