(BRUSSELS) - The French EU presidency on Monday expressed its hope that democracy can flower in Pakistan following the resignation of Pervez Musharraf.

The EU presidency "hopes that the future president and the Pakistan government can work together on developing and consolidating democracy in Pakistan, respecting the institutions and the rule of law," it said in a statement.

"The European Union will continue to support Pakistan on this path.

"The reinforcement of Pakistan's democratic institutions will also consolidate stability and regional cooperation." it added.

Musharraf, facing impeachment charges, announced his resignation earlier in the day.

The EU presidency had no comment on his departure, saying merely that it had "taken note of the decision."

A European Commission spokesman said Musharraf's resignation is "essentially a matter of internal politics."

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