June 14, 2014 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement on the Afghan presidential runoff election:
“Canada congratulates the Afghan people on a successful presidential runoff election. I am encouraged by reports of the number of Afghans—women, in particular—who courageously turned out to vote. Through their participation, they have demonstrated their commitment to the future of a democratic Afghanistan.
“As we await the final results, Canada calls upon both candidates and their supporters to respect the electoral process by reporting documented irregularities and by allowing election authorities to carry out their mandates in a transparent and effective manner.
“Canada commends the Independent Election Commission for its work in organizing today’s vote.
“We also recognize the work of the Ministry of Interior Affairs and the Afghan National Security Forces [ANSF] in ensuring that the elections were able to proceed, despite shameful attempts by insurgents to disrupt them with violence and intimidation.
“Canada remains committed to supporting the ANSF as it strengthens its capacity to respond to threats and to provide security for the Afghan people.
“Today’s vote marks an important step on the road to a more peaceful, more prosperous future for Afghanistan, and we look forward to the release of the final results.”
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