Chairman-in-Office welcomes conduct of elections in Albania

BUCHAREST, 13 July 2001 - The OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Romanian Foreign Minister Mircea Geoana, welcomes the adequate and transparent conduct of the first and second round of the parliamentary elections in Albania, held on 24 June and 8 July.

"These elections represent a clear progress towards meeting European standards", Mr. Geoana said. "The OSCE is prepared to further observe the completion of voting and will carefully monitor the post-electoral process. I urge the political forces in Albania to act in a responsible manner, according to the OSCE principles, in order to implement the results of these elections in a democratic manner", he added.

"The OSCE will continue to work closely with the authorities and civil society in Albania towards the consolidation of democracy and national reconciliation", Mr. Geoana said. He described the elections in Albania as "important not only for Albania but for the overall stability in the region".

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For further information, please contact Josue Anselmo, OSCE Spokesperson, mobile (+43) 664 325 3698, or the Press and Public Information Section of the OSCE Secretariat, tel.: (+ 43-1) 514 36 180, or e-mail: info@osce.org