SG/SM/9643
13 December 2004

Secretary-General Pleased by Decision on 26 December Re-Vote in Ukraine Presidential Election

NEW YORK, 10 December (UN Headquarters) -- The following was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General was very pleased to learn of the decision by the Parliament of Ukraine to approve legislation that will establish a new election commission and allow for a re-vote of the presidential run-off election to go forward on 26 December 2004.  He has also noted important developments under way with regard to constitutional reform.

He is gratified that the situation appears to be approaching a peaceful resolution, with full respect for the democratic principles and human rights that will be vital to the consolidation of democracy in Ukraine.

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