October 3, 2007
No. 134
The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable
Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, today congratulated the
Ukrainian people on the successful organization and implementation of the national
parliamentary elections held on September 30th.
The election observation mission from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in
Europe (OSCE)/Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR)
concluded that the elections in Ukraine were conducted largely in accordance with
international and OSCE standards. According to the OSCE preliminary report, voters
had a diverse choice of candidates and parties, and the fundamental freedoms of
assembly and expression were respected. Further, election day was calm and orderly,
with the main challenges related to voter lists.
“These elections again demonstrate the steadfast commitment of Ukrainians to
democracy and mark another important landmark in Ukraine’s democratic
transformation,” said Minister Bernier. “Canada’s New Government calls on all of
Ukraine’s political leaders to heed and respect the will of Ukraine’s voters as expressed
in the polls and to form a stable and effective democratic government on that basis.
Canada looks forward to working with the newly elected government.”
“Canada is pleased to have participated in the OSCE/ODIHR mission throughout the
electoral cycle,” said Minister Oda. “We will continue to support Ukraine’s efforts to
strengthen democratic processes and institutions.”
Since Ukraine’s independence in 1991, Canada has been a strong and consistent
supporter and partner to Ukraine in its democratic reform and transformation. Ukraine’s
emerging democracy is vital to the stability of Eastern and Central Europe. Canada
attaches great importance to its relations with Ukraine, a key European partner. The
thriving bilateral relationship is stimulated by a Ukrainian-Canadian community of more
than one million.
Canada, through the Canadian International Development Agency, was one of several
OSCE member countries to have provided short- and long-term election observers to
the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission to Ukraine. Participation in electoral
observation missions forms part of Canada’s broader commitment to support freedom
and democracy abroad. Through these and other initiatives, Canada plays a key role in
helping to build long-term, sustainable democracies.
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
http://www.international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Canadian International Development Agency
819-953-6534
info@acdi-cida.gc.ca
http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca
