Minister Welcomes Outcome of Elections in Pakistan

The Minister for Foreign Affairs Dermot Ahern TD, speaking from Timor-Leste, welcomed the outcome of the elections in Pakistan on 18 February 2008, and its broad reflection of the wishes of the people of Pakistan.

“I believe these elections have emphatically consolidated the return of Pakistan to civilian democratic government after some nine years of military rule.

EU election observers, though pointing to concerns over transparency in the counting, indicate that the elections were broadly a true reflection of the intentions of the people of Pakistan. I believe that all sides should accept this result.

The people of Pakistan have turned out in significant numbers, despite a campaign marked by awful acts of violence and the killing of Benazir Bhutto, to express their vision of a modern and democratic Pakistan. 

I welcome the fact that negotiations have begun on forming a new government.  It is important that all groups now set aside their differences and seek to work together to address the serious issues which face Pakistan.

With my EU colleagues, I very much look forward to working with the new government in seeking to deepen relations and cooperation with Pakistan.”

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Press
21/2/08