CCP/DEC. 31 (1567/06)

DECLARATION ON THE REFERENDUM IN PANAMA
 

(Adopted at its session held on October 25, 2006)

THE PERMANENT COUNCIL OF THE ORGANIZATION OF AMERICAN STATES,

HAVING HEARD the information presented by Ambassador Albert R. Ramdin, Assistant Secretary General, who led the OAS Electoral Observation Mission for the National Referendum on the Panama Canal expansion through a third set of locks, held on October 22, 2006; and

NOTING the extensive and peaceful participation of the Panamanian people in the aforementioned national referendum,

DECLARES:

1. Its congratulations to the people of Panama, its government, and its democratic political institutions, on the civic behavior they demonstrated during the national referendum on the expansion of the Panama Canal.

2. Its recognition of the responsible and effective contribution made by the OAS Electoral Observation Mission, led by Assistant Secretary General Ambassador Albert R. Ramdin, with the help of the governmental and electoral authorities and the general public.

3. Its gratitude to the States who contributed to this electoral observation mission.