U.S. Senator Susan Collins today released this statement following the announcement that the President of Egypt, Hosni Mubarak, has resigned.
"The unrelenting determination of the Egyptian people to bring about change in their government has been extraordinary. Today marks the beginning of a transition to what we hope will be a democratically elected government in Egypt that is accountable to the people. This process will be difficult as with the notable exception of the Army, Egypt under Mubarak's repressive rule has not developed the secular and democratic institutions to fill the power vacuum that now exists.
"As Egypt moves toward a free and democratic future that incorporates long overdue reforms, it also must continue its vital role as a cornerstone of peace in the Middle East."