Statement by the Press Secretary/Director-General for Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on the Presidential Election in the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe

August 28, 2001

The Government of Japan highly appreciates the fact that the presidential election in the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, which took place on July 29 and whose final result was announced by its Supreme Court on August 24, was confirmed by the international electoral monitors to be conducted in a democratic, transparent and peaceful manner, as it shows further progress in the democratization of the country.
The Government of Japan heartily congratulates President-elect Fradique De Menezes, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Co-operation, on his victory. Japan also admires the achievements of President Miguel Trovoada, who, during his ten-year tenure, labored to democratize the country. Japan pays high respect to President Trovoada, who in accordance with the provisions of the constitution, declined to run for the third term. The act proved his determination to comply with principle of the republic.
The Government of Japan hopes that the country's economy will develop, and its people's lives will be improved under the new president Fradique De Menezes, and that the friendly and cooperative relations between Japan and Sao Tome and Principe will be further strengthened.

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