Brussels, 07/12/2006 (Agence Europe) - In a declaration published by the Finnish EU Council Presidency on 7 December, the European Union congratulates Hugo Chávez for his re-election as president of Venezuela. The EU pays homage to the electoral maturity shown by the country's population and political forces. It is also pleased to note that the ballot on 3 December 2006 unfolded in a peaceful and transparent manner, “thus providing a good basis for the further development of democratic institutions and political dialogue in Venezuela”. Finally, it states its “determination to support consolidation of democracy and good governance in Venezuela, as well as alleviation of poverty, inequality and exclusion” and stresses that it also supports the fight by the government against corruption, and for the promotion of tolerance. “These are all essential for the well-being of Venezuela and its citizens”, the declaration reads.
The Union also appreciates the “courtesies extended by the National Electoral Council to the EU Electoral Observation Mission”. This mission, headed by MEP Monica Frassoni (Greens), confirmed the peaceful and orderly nature of the election, but also deplored the intense propaganda in the country's institutions in favour of Mr Chavez as well as the lack of balance in the media coverage of the electoral campaign. (hb)