Statement on Nigeria by EU High Representative

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Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement on on Nigeria earlier this month:

"The European Union welcomes the determination of Nigeria’s democratic institutions to ensure the continuity of democracy and to respect the rule of law.

The EU is encouraged by the public commitments made by Acting President Goodluck Jonathan to build on the gains of the amnesty in the Niger Delta, to promote good governance, accountability, and the fight against corruption and to work for continued economic growth and development.

The EU particularly welcomes his stated commitment to electoral reform in order to ensure free and fair elections in 2011. The people of Anambra State are to be commended for the peaceful conduct of the recent elections for state governor. However, Nigeria’s institutions are called upon to draw lessons from weaknesses in the organisation of this election.

The EU continues to support Nigeria in its efforts to remain committed to the principles of democracy and the rule of law, and I wish President Yar'Adua a full recovery."