Tunisia: what should the EU do?

[pampango]

http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=119459

As demonstrators in Tunisia demand a new democracy, the EU is seeking ways on how it can help the country make the pivotal transition.

Both Foreign Affairs Minister Tonio Borg and Opposition spokesperson for foreign affairs George Vella have warned that the EU should not adopt a paternalistic approach, but extend a helping hand while respecting Tunisia’s religion and culture.

The EU’s immediate assistance came in the form of preparations for the elections, as well as an aid package to address economic and social issues and consolidate the rule of law.

Asked to comment, MEP Simon Busuttil said Europe should increase economic aid and multiply trade opportunities for Tunisia in order to encourage a real and meaningful transition to democracy. This is what Europe did with Spain and Portugal in the 1970s and with Central and Eastern European countries in the 1990s.

[dipsydoodle]

1. Sounds constructive

.