OSCE Centre co-chairs discussion on preparations for Kyrgystan's presidential election

BISHKEK, 7 April 2009 - The OSCE Centre in Bishkek and the Central Election Commission co-hosted a meeting today that aimed to support preparations for the July presidential election.

Representatives from the Foreign Ministry and OSCE participating and partner States as well as international and national civil society partners took part in the meeting, held at the OSCE Academy in Bishkek.

"This meeting was very useful, interactive and constructive. At this early stage of the electoral process of the Presidential Elections, it was useful to share information, answer questions and identify potential problems," said Ambassador Andrew Tesoriere, Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek.

"The OSCE Centre stresses the importance of domestic observation with the involvement of local non-governmental organizations. Their active participation lends authority to the electoral process and it strengthens the wider process of confidence-building and partnership between the authorities and civil society."

Damir Lisovsky, Chairman of Central Election Commission, added: "Today's meeting was constructive and productive for all of us. On part of the CEC, we presented the preparations for the Elections, listened to participants' views and answered questions. Kyrgyzstan maintains a democratic practice of elections in accordance with international election standards. Practically all legal and political conditions are in place for holding elections."