Brussels, 24/02/2000 (Agence Europe) - The Portuguese Presidency has made the following declaration of the European Union's reaction to the Iranian elections.
"The European Union congratulates the people of Iran on their commitment to the democratic process as shown by their massive turnout at the first round of the parliamentary elections on 18 February. The European Union believes that the new Majles will be an important factor for the establishment of a civil society based on the rule of law in the Islamic Republic of Iran.
The European Union recalls its long-standing interest in consolidating and expanding the Comprehensive Dialogue it leads with Iran and reiterates its willingness to promote the establishment of closer ties with the Iranian Government on this basis."