Minister of State for South and Central Asia, North Africa, UN and the Commonwealth, Lord (Tariq) Ahmad said:
The UK recognises the calls for change during the constitutional referendum in Tunisia. Along with our US and EU partners, we also note the low level of participation and concerns regarding the lack of an inclusive and transparent process.
The inclusion of key stakeholders - including political parties, civil society organisations, trade unions and the media - and genuine public debate will be essential to address the political and economic challenges ahead, and underpin the legitimacy, viability and sustainability of structural reforms in Tunisia.
Ahead of planned legislative elections later this year, we urge the Tunisian authorities to respect the separation of powers, with sufficient checks and balances in place, develop an inclusive and transparent electoral law, and promote full respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
The UK has always been a constructive and candid partner to Tunisia and the Tunisian people. We will remain so at this crucial moment and in the years ahead.
