Ukraine's Presidential Election

Australia has followed with deep concern the second round of Ukraine's presidential elections, held on 21 November 2004. International observers, including the International Election Monitoring Mission of the Organisation of Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), have reported that the election has clearly fallen short of international standards.

In light of the irregularities detailed in the report by the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights on the election, Australia has serious reservations about whether the official results will fully reflect the will of the Ukrainian electorate.

I urge Ukrainian authorities to fully investigate the irregularities reported in the electoral process and to review the results together with international observers, including the OSCE.

Media Inquiries: Mr Downer's office 02 6277 7500 - DFAT Media Liaison 02 6261 1555