September 19, 2005
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Paul Martin today issued the following statement welcoming Afghanistan's parliamentary and provincial elections, held September 18, 2005, as critical and positive steps in the country's ongoing democratic transition:

"Canada applauds the citizens of Afghanistan, men and women alike, who courageously voted yesterday in an emphatic demonstration of commitment to their country’s future.

These successful elections represent a major step forward on Afghanistan’s path to greater stability and peace. Canada will continue to support democracy in Afghanistan by helping to keep the peace and to build responsible and accountable institutions of government.

Canada congratulates the Afghan government and everyone who worked so hard to make these elections a success: elections officials and everyone who participated on the Joint Electoral Management Body, as well as national and international observers.

The support given to these elections at every level, from candidates and managers to volunteers and voters, represents a clear and strong signal that Afghanistan desires its democracy and will stand up for it."