President Hosni Mubarak, today, Tuesday, March 27, addressed the nation marking the announcement of the results of the referendum on the Constitutional amendments.

The President maintained that the purpose of the amendments is to develop Egypt's legislative infrastructure and boost the country's economic, social and political reform. He further expressed belief that the results of the referendum reflect the Egyptian people's commitment to a better future.

Following is the full text:

Brothers and Sisters,
The People have spoken, and this morning’s announcement of the results of yesterday’s referendum affirms that we are at the beginning of a new phase [made possible] by constitutional amendments the legitimacy of which is based on the free will of the people.

These amendments will open the door to further development of our legislative framework that will support the continuous process of political, economic and social reform, and achieve the purpose of these constitutional reforms.

Notwithstanding the qualitative leap in the development of democracy represented in these amendments, I affirm once again that democracy is not achieved solely through constitutional or legislative texts but rather by expanding the scope of effective participation, spreading the values of democracy and raising the standard of its practice.

Brothers and Sisters,
The people have spoken, and expressed their desire for the better future for which we all strive, and insist on continuing on the path towards a new stage with strength and confidence.

The people were the true victor in yesterday’s referendum, and as I welcome its results, I say that the constitutional reforms that have been achieved are not the end of the of the process. Rather, these constitutional amendments have opened the door to a long road of difficult work that will require the cooperative efforts of all the people of this nation, which will require that we come together around what unites us not what divides us and on that which will take Egypt and her people forward.

We will move forward together in one rank, hand in hand, raising the banner of a strong and secure Egypt to complete the foundations of our democracy and build the future which we all desire.

May God Guide Us to that Which is Best for Egypt
Peace Be Upon You and God’s Mercy and Blessing