Thursday, 21 February 2008
EU Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighborhood Policy, Dr Benita Ferrero-Waldner has issued a statement on the conduct of Presidential elections in Armenia which states in part:
"I have taken note of the preliminary findings of the OSCE Election Observation Mission for the February 19 Presidential elections in Armenia.
I commend the people of Armenia and its leaders on the fact that these elections were conducted mostly in line with the countrys international commitments.
As the OSCE Election Observation Mission stated in its preliminary statement, further improvements will be necessary to address remaining challenges, in particular, strengthening of public confidence in the electoral process.
At the same time, it is important to note that considerable progress has been achieved with regard to the preparation and conduct of the electoral process since the last presidential elections in 2003 thanks to reforms undertaker.
Support for these reforms is a key priority of the EU/Armenia Action Plan under the European Neighborhood Policy. The European Commission will continue to assist Armenia on its path to political and economic reforms. The recent strengthening of the Commission presence in Yerevan through the opening of an EC Delegation is a clear sign of our ongoing commitment.
I am confident that the new President of Armenia, together with the new government, will continue firmly on the path of reform, which is vital for the Armenian people, as well as for the future of our friendship."
