The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomes the organization of the first free elctions in Iraq

The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs followed closely and welcomes the organization of the first free Iraqi elections that took place on January 30th, 2005 .

The large voter turnout reflects the bold decision of the Iraqis to take the responsibility of their own destiny by freely expressing their political options. Under difficult security conditions, the Iraqis decided to stand against the terrorist threat and to vote for democracy and freedom, rejecting any attempt to destabilize the democratic process.

The MFA welcomes the responsible attitude of the Iraqi population, in this historic moment, and firmly condemns the violent acts targeted at those who decided to contribute actively to the political and economical reconstruction and stabilization of Iraq .

Elections on January 30th represent an important step forward toward democratization of the Iraqi society and an important mark for the next stages of the political transition. The Transitional National Assembly and the executive structures that will be created on the basis of the results of the Sunday elections will be entrusted with the fundamental task of writing a new Constitution and submit it to the people's approval in a referendum at the end of 2005. On the basis of the fundamental law, elections will be organized in order to form a new government. This projection on the political developments in Iraq confirms the importance of the elections on January 30 th , a defining process for Iraq 's political path toward rule of law, stability and prosperity.

In order to successfully conclude this process, the Iraqi people must show solidarity and unity starting from this stage and allow the participation of all the members of the society in the democratic reconstruction process.

The MFA reaffirms the decisiveness of the Romanian authorities to continue acting together with the future Iraqi government and the international partners in order to support the reconstruction of Iraq and its reintegration within the international community of democratic values.

Source: Press Statement of the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Unofficial translation