EU Presidency declaration on the parliamentary elections in Guinea-Bissau

On the occasion of the parliamentary elections which took place in Guinea-Bissau on 28 and 30 March, the European Union wishes to emphasise the importance of the completion of the electoral process in that country, which is a fundamental stage in the process of transition towards the normalisation of the country's democratic and constitutional institutions. The European Union, in reference to the international observers' communiqué issued in the evening of 30 March, welcomes the calmness and public-spiritedness which characterised the electoral process.

Logistical problems, which even forced a delay in opening a number of polling stations, in particular in Bissau, were overcome and no significant act of violence was recorded. The elections were fair, free and transparent. The European Union congratulates the people of Guinea-Bissau on the high turnout in the recent election in that country. The European Union urges all parties concerned to accept and comply with the outcome of the electoral process. The European Union

reaffirms its willingness to help Guinea-Bissau in the process of normalisation of its economic and social situation and also reaffirms its commitment to helping the country in its efforts to consolidate its institutions.

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