KABUL - Meeting in Trieste on 26 June 2009, the Afghanistan-Pakistan International Support Group recognized the fundamental role that the Afghan elections play in the continued strengthening of democracy in Afghanistan.

Dari - Pashto

The Group emphasized the importance of credible, inclusive and secure elections that reflect the will of the Afghan people.

The Group appealed to all candidates to campaign according to the letter and spirit of the electoral law, applicable codes of conduct, and with dignity and fairness to ensure the credibility of Afghanistan’s democratic institutions. To ensure that the best interests of the Afghan people are served, it emphasized the importance of campaigns based on ideas and policies to improve the future of Afghanistan.

The Group emphasized the need for the Presidential decree on non-interference of state institutions to be scrupulously applied such that the equal rights of all candidates to participate fully in the process are not impeded, and that they are able to express their views without fear of intimidation or violence.

The Group affirmed the impartiality of its members regarding the outcome of the elections, and stressed its utmost commitment to ensuring the credibility and transparency of the process. It underlined that only credible, secure, and inclusive elections can produce legitimate leadership for the country. The Group urged Afghan voters to fully exercise their right to take part in the electoral process.

The Group endorsed with full support the role of UNAMA as the lead coordinator of the international community, and urged it to continue its work towards an electoral environment conducive to the exercise of the fundamental political rights of all Afghans.

The Group welcomed the decision of the European Union to send an Electoral Observation Mission, as well as the OSCE to send an Electoral Support Team, and encouraged other groups, national and international, to also observe the election process.