Schwartz on Egypt

from the inbox:

U.S. Rep. Allyson Schwartz issued the following statement today after participating in a Foreign Affairs Committee hearing with State Department and Middle Eastern policy experts to discuss recent developments in Egypt.

The hearing focused on the political implications of President Mubarak’s resignation, the political and social reforms needed ahead of any free and fair elections this fall, the role of the Muslim Brotherhood in politics, and how the United States can best support the people of Egypt as they work to successfully transition to democracy. Also discussed was the need for a continued commitment to Egypt’s 1979 peace treaty with Israel and securing the Suez Canal as an International Waterway.

“As Americans, we cherish the democratic process and our right to free and fair elections. The people of Egypt deserve those same rights and I applaud their demands to have their voices heard.

“The violence that has ensued as a result of this demonstration is deplorable and has no place in a free society. The Egyptian people are expressing legitimate grievances that their government must address peacefully and democratically.

“I join President Obama in calling for a peaceful transition of power and believe the United States can and should assist Egypt and its people in developing a stable democracy and a civil society that works in the best interest of the Egyptian people.

“We have long been an ally of Egypt and I think now more than ever it is in everyone’s best interest to continue that relationship and support the Egyptians in this process moving forward.”