Speaking from Tunis today at a press conference ahead of next week's first democratic elections, Guy Verhofstadt underlined the achievements of the peaceful democracy movement and the historical opportunity ahead of the country to create an open, democratic and secular state that has the potential to develop much deeper ties with the EU.

"Europe was late in recognising that the Tunisian uprising was in the name of freedom, justice and democracy - all core values of the EU. It soon became clear that Tunisia was the model for the Arab Spring - a non-violent outpouring of popular will for an end to the 'ancien regime' and an embrace of the freedom and opportunities offered by an open and democratic future."

"Tunisia today is the most educated and open of North African countries where women's rights are well founded and citizenship is highly valued. We should explore the possibilities of offering Tunisia more than a privileged partnership and possibly even investigate future membership of the EEA with rights similar to Norway and Iceland."

Also accompanying Verhofstadt on the visit to Tunis in support of the liberal and democratic parties is European Parliament's Vice President for democracy and human rights, Edward McMillan Scott (UK, Lib Dem) who added:

"The EU and Tunisia are moving towards a privileged partnership with negotiations on the opening up of agricultural and fisheries markets, student visas and supported by funds worth €1 billion. But the country also urgently needs direct budgetary support in order to help Tunisia build well functioning communities schools and hospitals."

"The parties elected next week to the new Parliament will carry the hopes and aspirations of the Tunisian people on their shoulders. Liberals and Democrats hope and trust they will live up to expectations."