The Secretary-General congratulates the people of Timor-Leste for showing their commitment to democracy and peace by participating in the 17 March presidential election.  The Secretary-General is heartened that the election was conducted in an atmosphere of order and calm.

The Secretary-General commends the national authorities, particularly the Technical Secretariat for Electoral Administration and the National Electoral Commission, for organizing and supervising the polling, and the National Police of Timor-Leste for their role in maintaining a stable environment. 
The Secretary-General reiterates the continued commitment of the United Nations to supporting the completion of this year’s electoral process.   The successful holding of the 2012 elections would further enable the transition to a new partnership between Timor-Leste and the United Nations.