EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton on Friday hailed Egypt's presidential vote as "a major step forward in Egypt's democratic transition."

"For the first time in history the Egyptian people have had the opportunity to choose their president in a real and competitive election," said a statement from her office.

Ashton was "greatly encouraged by early reports from international witnesses and experts," it added.

Millions of citizens stood in line to cast their votes and decide their future in a peaceful and orderly manner. We must of course wait for the process to be completed, and counting is underway now. But so far it looks as if voters have been able to express their preferences in a democratic and effective way.