In her speech at the American University in Cairo, Secretary Rice has challenged Egyptians to "lead and define" a democratic future in the Middle East (CNN).

"The people of Egypt should be at the forefront of this great journey, just as you have led this region through the great journeys of the past," said the U.S. secretary of State.

Her call for freedom and democracy was directly addressed to an audience of 1,000 attendants, includind hundreds of government officials, academics and many other guests.

Ms. Rice insisted on the U.S support for the democratic aspiration of all nations, especially calling for the Syrian and Iranian leaders to listen to their people.

In the eyes of the U.S, the Egyptians are expected to take a "major role in leading reform in this region", especially after President Mubarak has opened a door for change.

"Now, the Egyptian government must put its faith in its own people. We are all concerned for the future of Egypt's reforms when peaceful supporters of democracy, men and women, are not free from violence. The day must come when the rule of law replaces emergency decrees, and when the independent judiciary replaces arbitrary justice", stated Ms. Rice, praising the Egyptian President for supporting an amendment to the country's constitution that would allow multi-party elections.

"Egypt's elections, including the parliamentary elections, must meet objective standards that define every free election ... International election monitors and observers must have unrestricted access", added Rice, quoted by Reuters Agency.

Secretary Rice and President Mubarak have also met to discuss important issues like the Israeli pullout from Gaza, the Iraqi violence and encouraging stability within Iraq and also at its borders with Iran and Syria.