SECRETARY-GENERAL BAN SAYS 'EYES OF THE WORLD' ARE ON TIMOR-LESTE'S ELECTION

SECRETARY-GENERAL BAN SAYS 'EYES OF THE WORLD' ARE ON TIMOR-LESTE'S ELECTION
New York, Apr 9 2007 12:00PM
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon <" http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=2508">told the people of Timor-Leste that the "eyes of the world" are upon them as they vote in today's presidential election, the first in the tiny nation since gaining independence from Indonesia in 2002.

Mr. Ban also called on the people to respect the election results, and further pledged the world body's commitment to supporting the country. He also highlighted the close collaboration between the UN Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (<"http://www.unmiset.org">UNMIT) and state institutions in providing security and logistics for the ballot.

"So today, the eyes of the world are upon you. I wish you the best on election day, and in the weeks and months ahead. I call on all candidates and their supporters to accept the results in a peaceful manner," the Secretary-General said in a video message.

"And I pledge that the United Nations will remain steadfastly committed to supporting Timor-Leste on the path of stability and development, in a climate of democratic, accountable and responsive governance. We will continue to walk with you on your journey."

He said the election was a "new milestone" in the country's effort to consolidate democracy as he expressed hope that there would be no violence and intimidation and the poll would be "free, fair, transparent and credible."
2007-04-09 00:00:00.000

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