23/05/2003 (Agence Europe) - On 12 May, the Greek Presidency made the following statement on behalf of the EU: 'The EU welcomes the recent holding of the third general elections in the Republic of Yemen. The elections have registered a high level of participation and were conducted in conditions generally considered fair. Significantly less violent incidents were reported than in the past. The EU wishes to commend the Yemeni people and government, as well as the newly elected representatives, for continuing the process of democratization and decentralization, and reiterates its continuous support to the Republic of Yemen in pursuing sustainable, equitable and participatory development, of which the promotion of human rights, democracy, the rule of law and good governance are integral parts.'