We welcome the completion in a peaceful environment of the second round of the Presidential elections and the general elections in Madagascar on 20 December 2013.

These elections constitute an important turning point in the establishment of an environment of lasting peace and stability in the country as they conclude the transition period in accordance with the Roadmap signed between the political actors in Madagascar in 2011, thanks to the significant contributions and efforts of the Southern African Development Community and the African Union.

Believing that the political problems in Madagascar will be resolved in line with the legitimate demands of the people of Madagascar through democratic methods, we wish that the political actors will continue to act on the basis of compromise and common sense in the subsequent process and reiterate our support to the people of Madagascar.