In a joint statement delivered on 17 January by High Representative Catherine Ashton and and Vice-President Štefan Füle, the European Union reaffirmed its solidarity with Tunisia and its people. The statement highlights the importance to ensure a new unity Government that ensures a peaceful democratic transition, and EU's will to provide any support for that objective.

In their statement High Representative Ashton, and Vice-President Füle reiterates EU's condemn of the violent repression of manifestations occurred in Tunisia in the first days of the year, for which the European Parliament already requested a independent investigation on the previous days. The EU has also urged Tunisian authorities to act responsibly, preserve peace, show restraint and  avoid further violence and casualties.

The European Union is prepared to deploy, if required to do so, the necessary assistance to help the Tunisian authorities with urgent needs, and is also already working on a broader package to assist with democratic reforms and economic development as soon as the political situation stabilises.

In view of the recent events, the Union calls for the formation of a new unity Government which will ensure such peaceful democratic transition. High Representative Ashton and Commissioner Füle also underlined the need to respond to people's demands for a truly inclusive electoral process where appropriate guarantees are essential. In a spirit of openness and dialogue, all democratic forces must come forward to shape a new Tunisian democracy and correct the mistakes of the past.

As put forward in this joint statement the European Union is ready to provide immediate assistance to prepare and organise the electoral process and lasting support to a genuine democratic transition. Tunisians have clearly expressed their will for democracy and the Union will support them it their peaceful and democratic aspirations.