International observers speak about Kurdistan's referendum process
ERBIL, Kurdistan Region — Former and current politicians from European countries spoke about observing the referendum process in the Kurdistan Region, where on Austrian observer described Monday’s events as “free and open.”
They delivered their remarks at Kurdistan' Independent High Referendum and Electoral Commission.
Observers included Franz Obermayr, an Austrian representative to the EU Parliament and Bernard Kouchner, a former FM of France, among others.
"As we could see yesterday coming to the different polling locations and stations, we could really submit that there was excellent work, they could vote peacefully, and that what they wished. It was a free and open referendum, so far," Obermayr said.
He was asked about whether the vote will influence the international community and particularly Europe, given the contributions of the Kurdish people and Peshmerga in the fight against ISIS.
"I think the EU has to do a lot to say thank Peshmerga," explained the representative.
He added that the KRG in Europe has "lots of ambassadors in our countries, people of Kurdish origin," explaining he expects the question to be answered in EU in the days, weeks, and months.
The observers explained they had visited polling cities in Kurdistan, seeing women and men voting, as well as Christians, Yezidis, the displaced persons, and Peshmerga.
The former FM of France expects other capitals to reconsider previous stances regarding the independence referendum.
"I'm completely sure that all these governments will change their positions, we return to wiseness and to real consideration of reality,” said Kouchner.
He explained that the vote is the beginning of a process of talks and “not a declaration of war.”
“The Kurdish people have voted now they have to negotiate and Mr. Barzani was very clear with the beginning of negotiations that it will not change overnight,” said Kouchner
The commission said on Monday night final results will be announced within 72 hours for the Kurdistan Region's historic vote on independence.
Last updated at 12:05 p.m.