Statement by High Representative Catherine Ashton on the General Election in the Solomon Islands
Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the Commission, made the following statement today:
“In light of the 4 August General Election, I welcome the strong commitment to peace and democracy shown by the people of the Solomon Islands as they turned out in high numbers during a calm polling day. I also would like to commend the Solomon Islands Electoral Commision for the orderly conduct of the elections, which took place in an open, transparent and competitive environment, respecting fundamental freedoms. I trust that the counting and subsequent election by Parliament of a new Prime Minister proceeds in a similarly peaceful and positive atmosphere.
The European Union has a long and close relationship with the Solomon Islands and remains engaged with the country’s effort to boost democratic and economic development in the context of our political dialogue and in line with the EU-Solomon Islands country strategy. The conclusions of the EU Electoral Expert Mission, which was fielded before and during the elections, could be a useful basis to undertake further cooperation in the electoral field, especially with regard to the improvement of the voter registration system.”
Source:
Council of the European Union