Brussels, 04/04/2013 (Agence Europe) - On 3 April, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton announced the deployment of a European observation mission for the parliamentary elections in Pakistan on 11 May, in response to an invitation by the authorities. She has nominated Michael Gahler MEP (EPP, Germany) as head of this mission. Gahler was also the EU's chief observer for the 2008 elections in Pakistan. He will arrive in Islamabad on 7 April and has said that he is “optimistic” about the electoral process. He added that the conditions are “much more favourable” than five years ago. “Supported by the EU, Pakistan has created conditions for the implementation of transparent and democratic elections”, he said.
“The forthcoming parliamentary elections in Pakistan will be a historic moment for the democratic development of the country”, Ashton stated, reiterating that this will mark for the first time the transition of power from one elected government to the next. “I hope that all those involved will engage in the process in a peaceful and democratic way”, she added. She said that she is confident that the mission will strengthen the confidence of the Pakistani voters in the process.
In total, around 120 EU observers will be present at the elections. The first team, comprising 11 analysts, arrived on 2 April. It will gradually be joined by 52 long-term observers and 46 short-term observers from the 27 EU member states, Norway, Switzerland and Canada. (CG/transl.fl)