Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Dermot Ahern T.D. on the outcome of the Parliamentary Elections in Ukraine.

“I am greatly encouraged by the preliminary findings of the OSCE's International Election Observer mission on yesterday's parliamentary elections in Ukraine. The President, Government and people of Ukraine deserve our sincere congratulations on achieving the freest and fairest elections since their country's independence.

The OSCE Mission found that these elections further consolidated the breakthrough that began less than a year and a half ago in Ukraine.  The Mission found that, overall, fundamental civil and political rights were respected.  There is no doubt that Ukrainian voters were enabled to make informed choices between distinct alternatives following a lively campaign that was comprehensively covered by the media.

I look forward to the further development of Ireland's relations with Ukraine following the formation of a new Government.  Bilateral relations and EU- Ukraine relations have come a long way in a short time.  The conduct of yesterday's elections gives grounds for hope that Ukraine's democratic transformation is set to continue. If so, Ireland and the EU must continue to support Ukraine in this arduous process.”

ENDS+++
Press Office
27th March 2006