Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on Afghanistan

The Secretary-General was pleased to learn of the enthusiastic voter turnout in Saturday's poll for Afghanistan's first elected President. It presented the Afghans with a historic opportunity towards the establishment of a stable and democratic state for which they have worked so hard and deserve. That this election was held without major security incident is a tribute to the determination of the Afghan population.

A number of Presidential candidates have cited some electoral irregularities which are being investigated. The Secretary-General urges the Presidential candidates and their supporters to continue to work through lawful measures to resolve such disputes.

The Secretary-General calls on the Afghans, with the support of the international community, to work in concert to ensure Afghanistan's transition of a peaceful and democratic nation.