The people of Burkina Faso have chosen the path of peaceful and democratic change. For the first time in the country’s history, the people of Burkina Faso have voted for a civilian president and government in free and transparent elections at the weekend. Permit me to offer Burkina Faso my most sincere congratulations on achieving this milestone.

With these elections, the course that the people set out on in October of last year – bringing democracy to Burkina Faso – is being continued. A great debt of gratitude is owed to the transitional government under President Kafando, who has successfully guided the country through the transitional phase since Blaise Compaoré’s resignation. With great responsibility, the transitional government has played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the democratic transition. Many other actors from civil society, political parties and the army have also done their part to make this possible. The fact that Burkina Faso has managed to achieve this democratic transition peacefully may also serve as an example to other countries.

Burkina Faso’s new Government faces great challenges. It must carry out reforms in the judiciary and security sector, stimulate the economy, and create educational and future prospects for the country’s youth. Germany has been a close partner of Burkina Faso for over 50 years and stands ready to continue to support this important process.