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Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner
welcomes referendum in Iraq
Commissioner for External Relations and European
Neighbourhood Policy, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, welcomed
the holding of the referendum in Iraq on 15th October as
an important step towards democracy and stability in
Iraq.
“Despite the difficult security situation, it has been a
great day for democracy in Iraq. I pay tribute to all
those Iraqis who cast their votes. By voting Iraqis have
confirmed their commitment to democratic change. Risking
their personal safety to exercise their democratic
rights required immense courage. I condemn all violent
acts, and regret the loss of life and the casualties
that occurred. These criminal acts have not succeeded in
quenching the Iraqi people’s determination to take their
political future in their hands. This vote was an
important step to a future in which political
differences will be settled in Iraq through democratic
dialogue, and not through violence. The Commission
remains committed to supporting the Iraqis in their
efforts to build a stable and prosperous country with
democratic and accountable institutions”.
The European Commissioner praised the Independent
Electoral Commission for Iraq for its work in preparing
for the referendum. She also commended the efforts of
the United Nations Assistance Mission to Iraq to ensure
effective assistance throughout the referendum process.
The European Commission has been the key donor in
supporting the UN’s public outreach work to prepare for
the referendum. This forms part of the total €518
million that the European Commission has provided to
Iraq since the end of 2003. Other assistance has
included support for the January elections, and for
rehabilitation of the provision of basic services to
respond to the most urgent needs of the ordinary Iraqi
people.
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