Canada Congratulates Ukrainians on Elections

Ottawa, October 3, 2007 - The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, congratulated the Ukrainian people on the successful organization and implementation of the national parliamentary elections held on September 30th.

The election observation mission from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)/Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) concluded that the elections in Ukraine were conducted largely in accordance with international and OSCE standards. According to the OSCE preliminary report, voters had a diverse choice of candidates and parties, and the fundamental freedoms of assembly and expression were respected. Further, Election Day was calm and orderly, with the main challenges related to voter lists.

“These elections again demonstrate the steadfast commitment of Ukrainians to democracy and mark another important landmark in Ukraine’s democratic transformation,” said Minister Bernier. “Canada’s New Government calls on all of Ukraine’s political leaders to heed and respect the will of Ukraine’s voters as expressed in the polls and to form a stable and effective democratic government on that basis. Canada looks forward to working with the newly elected government.”

“Canada is pleased to have participated in the OSCE/ODIHR mission throughout the electoral cycle,” said Minister Oda. “We will continue to support Ukraine’s efforts to strengthen democratic processes and institutions.”

Since Ukraine’s independence in 1991, Canada has been a strong and consistent supporter and partner to Ukraine in its democratic reform and transformation. Ukraine’s emerging democracy is vital to the stability of Eastern and Central Europe. Canada attaches great importance to its relations with Ukraine, a key European partner. The thriving bilateral relationship is stimulated by a Ukrainian-Canadian community of more than one million.

Canada, through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), was one of several OSCE member countries to have provided short- and long-term election observers to the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission to Ukraine. Participation in electoral observation missions forms part of Canada’s broader commitment to support freedom and democracy abroad. Through these and other initiatives, Canada plays a key role in helping to build long-term, sustainable democracies.