Press Releases
Statement by the Press Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, on the Second Round of Presidential Election in Afghanistan
1. The Government of Japan notes with concern the reports that fraud has taken place in the second round of the presidential election in Afghanistan, as well as concerns the provocative remarks, which have been made in some parts of Afghanistan following the announcement of the provisional results on July 7, that undermine the electoral process.
2. The Government of Japan believes it is critically important for the stability and reconstruction of Afghanistan that the process up to the announcement of the final results proceed in a fair and peaceful manner, and that a stable government is swiftly established. We therefore expect the Independent Election Commission and the Independent Election Complaints Commission to review the contested ballots and address complaints in a proper and thorough manner in accordance under relevant laws and regulations. We expect both candidates and their supporters to conduct dialogue and deal with the situation in a calm manner.
3. The Government of Japan will continue to maintain a cooperative relationship with the new and fairly-elected president, and support Afghanistan’s efforts towards the stability and development of Afghanistan.