The European Commission expressed Wednesday its firm commitment to support "the legitimate aspirations of the people of Egypt."
"The European Commission reiterates the call for an orderly transition in Egypt through a comprehensive process encompassing all political forces and civil society ready to abide by democratic norms," the EU's executive body said.
"We urge for the necessary reforms including the holding of free and fair elections to be undertaken in a timely, decisive and concrete manner."
The European Commission said it "firmly believes that rule of law, respect for fundamental rights, free and fair elections and a pluralist democracy anchored in an active civil society are the best means to achieve stability and prosperity."
The Commission stressed that these are the foundational principles of the European Union and are the core values that underpin the cooperation with the partner countries, notably those that are part of the European Neighbourhood Policy in the Southern rim of the Mediterranean.
"The European Commission stands ready to step up its assistance to Egypt and its people in this transition," it added.