![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20121007013733im_/http://rules.house.gov/Media/image/image001.png)
For Immediate Release:
May 21, 2012
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Dreier in Egypt to Observe Historic Presidential Elections
CAIRO, Egypt – Congressman David Dreier (R-CA), Chairman of the House Rules Committee and the House Democracy Partnership, arrived in Cairo, Egypt on Sunday to witness the nation's first post-revolution democratic presidential election. In the days leading up to the election, Dreier is meeting with party representatives, government officials, and civil society to discuss this historic vote. He will be an official witness of the May 23-24 elections. Dreier previously led an international observer delegation in Egypt during the first round of elections for the People’s Assembly on November 28 and 29.
“While there is a great deal of uncertainty in Egypt at this time, what I saw as a witness of the parliamentary elections is that the Egyptian people want and deserve the opportunity to choose their leaders and return to democratic, civilian rule. I am here in Cairo once again simply to witness what takes place and offer support for a fair, open and transparent process.”
Dreier continued, “The overall transition to a stable, peaceful and prosperous democracy will be a lengthy process, but the presidential election, like the parliamentary elections before it, represents a significant step forward. As this transition process proceeds, additional steps can be taken to bolster its potential for success. That is why I continue to support passage of an Egypt-U.S. free trade agreement. Such a partnership would spur growth in both countries, providing the resources to support Egypt's democratic development while creating new opportunities for Americans as well. Greater economic engagement will be key to ensuring a positive path forward for Egypt during this time of political transition.”
In November 2011, Dreier introduced in the House of Representatives H. Res. 472, a bipartisan resolution calling for negotiations of a Egypt-U.S. free trade agreement. The text of the resolution can be found here.