23 July 2009 - Statement Attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General

New York - The Secretary-General will be closely watching the upcoming second round of presidential elections in Guinea-Bissau as an important measure of national commitment to democracy and reconciliation. He urges the people of Guinea-Bissau to participate peacefully in the voting as they have done in past elections. He calls upon the presidential candidates to resolve any disputes that might arise through peaceful, legal means and to respect the final result.

The Secretary-General hopes this election will mark a clear step forward for Guinea-Bissau in achieving political stability and security, and in fostering the social and economic conditions necessary to consolidate peace and fully realize human rights throughout the country. The United Nations is committed to working with the newly elected President, the government, the National Assembly, and other authorities to encourage further progress in Guinea-Bissau through national dialogue and reconciliation.