Democracy in the Arab world

The first round of elections in Lebanon led to a crushing victory by the Opposition parties. Lebanon seems to be on the mend again as a free and independent country. There are, however, further obstacles to be overcome. Javier Solana, European Union...

The first round of elections in Lebanon led to a crushing victory by the Opposition parties. Lebanon seems to be on the mend again as a free and independent country. There are, however, further obstacles to be overcome.

Javier Solana, European Union High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), congratulated the Lebanese people for the successful conduct of the first round of the parliamentary elections, held last Sunday.

He added that the elections represent an important step for the Lebanese people towards full democracy and sovereignty. In the same positive spirit, Mr Solana also expressed his hope for the remaining rounds of elections to be held in the same positive and constructive atmosphere.

After the successful elections in Iraq, the Palestinian lands and Lebanon, democracy seems to be making its first timid steps forward in the Arab world. One hopes the momentum is maintained in the next few years - for the good of Arab citizens and the good of all.

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