Brussels, 15/02/2010 (Agence Europe) - With the president of Nigeria, Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, prevented by illness from carrying out his duties, Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for External Relations and Security Policy, has welcomed the commitment of the acting president towards democracy and the rule of law.
“The EU is encouraged by the public commitments made by Acting President Goodluck Jonathan to build on the gains of the amnesty in the Niger Delta, to promote good governance, accountability, and the fight against corruption and to work for continued economic growth and development. The EU particularly welcomes his stated commitment to electoral reform in order to ensure free and fair elections in 2011,” she said in a press release on 12 February. The EU continues to support Nigeria in its efforts to remain committed to the principles of democracy and the rule of law, she said, wishing President Yar'Adua a full recovery. (A.N./transl.rt)