Statement by the Foreign MinistRY on the Iraqi Elections

31 January, 2005  

The Government of the Republic of Cyprus welcomes the election in Iraq and notes with satisfaction the high percentage of participation of the Iraqi people despite the difficult security conditions. The elections mark a new stage in the political process in Iraq. Cyprus expresses the hope that this will serve in promoting the further development of democratisation, on the basis of the UNSC Resolution 1546.

To that end the Government of Cyprus would like to express its readiness to work with all its EU partners in contributing further to the economic, social and political reconstruction of Iraq and lends its full support for UN activities in Iraq.

The challenges that lay ahead for the new political leadership should not be underestimated. Cyprus, as a member of the EU, is committed to the support, already expressed by the Union, in securing the realisation of the objective of a stable, unified and democratic Iraq that will develop relations of co-operation and friendship with its neighbours and, thus, contribute to regional stability and peace

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