Lord Ahmad statement following the Afghan presidential election

The Minister for South Asia, Lord (Tariq) Ahmad of Wimbledon said:

The UK notes the announcement of the results by the Independent Election Commission on 18 February.

I commend the bravery of the people who exercised their democratic right to vote, and pay tribute to the military and civilian institutions who ensured a peaceful Election Day.

We will continue to work with the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to protect and expand such rights.

I would strongly encourage any concerns around the electoral process to be handled through due legal and constitutional processes.

This is an important time for Afghanistan’s future so I also welcome President Ghani’s decision to postpone the presidential inauguration to 9 March.

Afghan leaders need to peacefully resolve their political differences and cease any activity that stands in the way of unity.

Now is the time to come together and make preparations to pursue peace.

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