Summary: EU Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner welcomed Iraq referendum (15 October 2005: Brussels)
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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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