Brussels, 26/02/2002 (Agence Europe) - On 22 February, the Spanish Presidency issued the following declaration on behalf of the European Union:
"The EU applauds the efforts of the Secretary-General of the OAU to find a solution to the current political crisis in Madagascar. The EU hopes that it will be possible to hold elections on a time scale and under conditions such as to afford credible assurances of impartiality and transparency. The EU reiterates that it is prepared to lend its assistance and support in the organisation of the second round. The EU calls on both sides to continue the dialogue on unresolved issues, under the aegis of the OAU and with the cooperation of the Secretary General of the United Nations, so that a solution can be found which is consistent with the upholding of civil peace and democratic principles. With this in mind, it urges the parties concerned to do nothing that might compromise respect for democracy and hence the future of Madagascar and its relationship with the international community". (See EUROPE of 13 February, p.6, on the subject of the resolution adopted by the European Parliament).