Thank You, Mr. Chairman. The United States would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Government and the citizens of Serbia on the peaceful, successful conduct of the September 29 Presidential elections.

The overwhelming conclusion of international observers was that the elections were in line with international standards and that no significant irregularities occurred.

We hope that all eligible citizens of Serbia will exercise their privilege to vote in the second round of elections. This will ensure not only that the results can be validated, but also that the outcome reflects the views of the voting population.

In light of persistent shortcomings in the legislative framework governing elections in Serbia, we strongly urge Serbian authorities to address these shortcomings as soon as possible after the second round.

Two recommendations from ODIHR, in particular, should be implemented on an urgent basis: the removal of the 50% voter turnout requirement, and establishment of an intermediary election commission between the Republic Election Commission and the Polling Boards.

Mr. Chairman, Serbia has made extraordinary progress over the past several years -- one only has to note last Sunday's successful elections to see how far, indeed. We urge Serbia to continue on this path, and to bring its electoral framework fully into compliance with ODIHR's recommendations. Moreover, we urge Serbian citizens to participate fully in the second round of elections, thus making their voices heard.