Statement by the Press Secretary/ Director-General for Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on the Situation in Mauritania

August 7, 2008

On August 6, in Mauritania where efforts for consolidation of democracy have been under way since 2005, the armed forces arrested the President and other officials, who had been elected by democratic process, and in effect seized power. Such an action runs counter to democratic procedures, and the Government of Japan expresses deep concern about it.
The Government of Japan strongly expects the constitutional order and democratic system in Mauritania to be restored as soon as possible.

(END)