|
Commissioner for External
Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy, Benita
Ferrero-Waldner today welcomed the result of the Iraq
referendum:
“The Iraqi people are to be congratulated. The high turn
out in voting on 15th October demonstrated a strong
commitment to democratic change. I believe that this
vote was a key step towards the building of a stable
country in which differences are settled through
democratic dialogue.
We must now focus on the way ahead. In December Iraqis
will have the chance to vote again to elect a new
government and Council of Representatives. It is
important that we see an even more inclusive process, to
elect an administration that is fully representative of
the whole country.
The new authorities will be entrusted with a review of
the Constitution, which must also be an inclusive
process embracing the views and concerns of all parties.
The EU is the most significant international donor
supporting the elections and referendum that are the
pillars of Iraq’s political transition, contributing €80
million so far to this process.
The Commission, will continue to work with the UN, to
support the Iraqis in preparation of the coming
elections, and in their efforts to build a stable and
prosperous country with democratic and accountable
institutions that can serve the interests of all the
people.
The Independent Electoral Commission for Iraq, supported
by the UN, deserves praise for the excellent job it has
done in managing the referendum, in very demanding
conditions”. |
