AMN / NEW DELHI
India has congratulated the people of Afghanistan for exercising their democratic rights at Parliamentary elections held Saturday.
In a statement, the External Affairs Ministry said, the enthusiastic participation of people, including women, despite terrorist violence, is a testament of resilience of the people of Afghanistan.
It reflects their desire and faith in democratic governance and rejection of the evil forces that foment and spread terror and violence. India also congratulated the National Unity government, the Election Commission and the security forces of Afghanistan for creating an enabling environment and organising the elections despite numerous challenges.
The Ministry added that New Delhi hopes that the elections will contribute to the strengthening of democratic institutions and deepen inclusive democratic system in Afghanistan. It reiterated India’s supports to Afghan people in their efforts to build a peaceful, stable, united, inclusive and prosperous nation.
The two-day voting for the parliamentary elections in Afghanistan ended yesterday, with about four million eligible voters exercising their franchise over the weekend. Officials said, at least 28 people were killed in violent incidents across the country as people voted on Saturday.
In an address to the nation, shortly after the polls closed, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani thanked the people for such large turnout despite security risks.