President Andry Rajoelina, on 26th September 2012
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At the General Assembly today (26th September 2012), Madagascar's Transitional President, Andry Rajoelina, called on the United Nations for continued international support for his Indian Ocean country as it approaches elections that are the final phase of a road-map to end a protracted political crisis.
"In accord with UN experts, Madagascar's electoral timetable has been officially promulgated with presidential elections set for 8 May, 2013",President Rajoelina told the 67th General Assembly on the second day of its annual General Debate.
"Therefore I launch a solemn appeal to all our international partners, all Member States and friends of Madagascar to support us and sustain us in this process which is the most democratic path in the world", he added.
"Here, today, I launch an appeal for international solidarity to lead this transition to the construction of a more promising future without smothering us", President Rajoelina said. "So let me give you the solution: the best way to help us would consist in trusting us, in respecting your promises and letting us assume our responsibilities".
In his statement to the Assembly, the Madagascan leader also referred to a host of problems confronting the international community from unrest in the Arab and Islamic world to food insecurity to maritime piracy.
President Rajoelina is one of scores of national leaders and other high-level officials who are presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly's General Debate, which ends on 1 October 2012.
Jeannot Ramambazafy, special envoy in New York
with UN News Service