Brussels, 11/09/2013 (Agence Europe) - On 11 September, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton congratulated the people of the Maldives on the first round of the presidential elections, which international observers have described as “inclusive and competitive”. “The very high level of voter participation demonstrates the commitment of Maldivians to the democratic process. Campaigning was peaceful and the elections were well run”, said Ashton's spokesperson. He added that Ashton looks forward to the second round of voting on 28 September, “in which the people of the Maldives will be able to freely choose their next president”. Ashton remains committed to supporting a stable and democratic Maldives. Turnout in the first round was 88.4%. The former president, Mohamed Nasheed, who was ousted in February 2012 won in the first round and will be up against Abdulla Yameen in the second round. The outgoing president, Mohamed Waheed, only garnered 5% of the vote in the first round. (CG/transl.fl)