05/05/2015 14:00
European Free Alliance hails Nagorno-Karabakh elections
The European Free Alliance issued a statement praising the parliamentary elections held in Nagorno-Karabakh on May 3.
The text of the statement is provided below:
“The European Free Alliance hails the exemplary elections held yesterday in Nagorno Karabakh, which have confirmed the high level of democracy there. Seven political parties in total competed for the 33 seats in the National Parliament in a flawless vote which was monitored by international observers from various European countries. Among them, former EFA MEPs and Honorary EFA member Iñaki Irazabalbeitia and Rafa Larreina, MP at the Spanish Parliament for EFA member Eusko Alkartasuna.
“The Democratic Party of Artsakh, EFA’s first Associated Member, re-confirmed itself as the 2nd biggest political force behind the ruling “Free Motherland” party and despite the fact that 3 new parties took part for the first time in these elections. DPA is expected to receive 7 or 8 seats in the new Nagorno Karabakh Assembly.
“EFA reiterates that the EU should finally change its policy in the Nagorno Karabakh issue and assist the landlocked country towards its path to international recognition. This is the only path towards a sustainable peace settlement in the area and a development that would strengthen values such as democracy, justice and protection of human rights against armed threat and aggression.
“During its recent General Assembly, held on 17 April in Lusatia, EFA called upon all UN members to recognize Nagorno Karabakh.”