EU Liberals and Democrats welcome Romania poll outcome

6.30.19pm GMT Mon 13th Dec 2004

Welcoming the result of Romania's presidential election ballot, ALDE Leader Graham Watson

MEP said:

"I congratulate Traian Bazescu and Calin Tariceanu on their victory. The Alliance of Democrats and Liberals in Romania has been a runaway success, with gains in parliamentary and presidential elections. Romania's citizens have taken a stand against the corrupt practices and authoritarian tactics of the Iliescu/Nastase regime. In so doing, they have elected a President and a parliamentary team, which will set Romania firmly on the path to EU membership in 2007. This is a major advance for Romania and for Europe."

Looking forward to this week's EU Council, Mr Watson added:

"The concerns of many heads of state and government about Romania's democracy can now be set aside. Mr Bazescu and his partners must move swiftly and decisively to free the state-controlled broadcasters from government interference in their news reporting, to tackle corruption and to strengthen the independence of the judiciary. With sufficient resolve and good will, Romania can now be ready for EU entry in January 2007."

Ends