Egypt's military council, which assumed power last year after Hosny Mubarak was toppled by a popular uprising, should keep its promise to hold presidential elections by June, the European Union said Monday, dpa reported.
"The EU places great importance on the transfer to civilian rule as early as possible," EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said in a statement.
"To meet the expectations of the Egyptian people, it is vital that the authorities stick to their commitment to hold presidential elections by the end of June this year," she added.
The message was delivered on the day that Egypt's newly-elected parliament held its inaugural session.
"I hope that the parliament will drive on the democratic reforms to meet the expectations of the Egyptian people for social rights, economic growth and fundamental freedoms," Ashton commented.