EU calls for orderly transfer of power in Malaysia

BRUSSELS, May 10 (KUNA) -- The European Union (EU) said Thursday that in the general elections held in Malaysia on Wednesday, "the Malaysian people have voted for peaceful change." "The European Union expects the result to be respected, beginning with a smooth and orderly transfer of power, in line with the Malaysian constitution," Maja Kocijancic, spokesperson for EU High Representative Federica Mogherini, stated in a statement.
The EU looks forward working with the future government in Malaysia to further strengthen EU relations for the benefit of all Malaysian and European citizens, she added.
Former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad surprised all by winning yesterday's elections. At 92, he is said to become the world's oldest elected leader.
He defeated the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition, which has been in power since independence in 1957. (end) nk.mt