Dreier Statement on Democracy NGO Employees' Departure from Egypt

Statement

Rules Committee Chairman David Dreier (R-CA) issued the following statement today following today's decision by the government of Egypt to allow employees of international democracy NGOs to return home:

"Today's decision by the government of Egypt to allow employees of international democracy NGOs to return home is a very positive development. I would like to express my appreciation to the Egyptian and U.S. officials, including our tremendous ambassador in Cairo, Anne Patterson, who have worked so tirelessly to bring about a resolution to the ongoing issue. The U.S.-Egypt relationship is of enormous strategic importance, and we must continue our efforts to strengthen our ties as we support the Egyptian people's quest for a full transition to democracy.

"The status of democracy NGOs, and their employees, remains unresolved, and we must work toward a full resolution that ensures the rights of all individuals in Egypt to engage in the democratic process and the strengthening of democratic institutions. I remain committed to engaging with the democratically elected parliament, military leadership and civil society as we work together toward these goals."

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