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

February 2, 2009
Japanese

Japan welcomes the news that the Provincial Election of Iraq, which has a great significance for the firm establishment of democracy in the country, was conducted on January 31 (Sat).
While it was regrettable that election obstructions, such as murder of candidates, were observed across Iraq during the election, Japan pays respect to the Iraqi government and people for their efforts that enabled the holding of the election despite these despicable acts.
Japan dispatched an Election Observation Mission, which consisted of five members, headed by Mr. Takehiro Kagawa, Deputy Director-General of the Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to support the fair and smooth implementation of the election. According to the Mission, the election was generally implemented in a peaceful manner.
Japan expects that the political process, including the remaining issues, will make further progress in Iraq. Japan will continue to actively support the efforts of the Iraqi government and people for such end.

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