The UN Security Council urged the Transitional Government and the Provisional Electoral Council of Haiti on Friday to announce definite dates for the postponed elections, with the first round to be held no later than Feb. 7.

In a presidential statement read out by Tanzanian Ambassador Augustine Mahiga, whose country holds the rotating Presidency for the month of January, the Council said the Haitian authorities should ensure that the elections take place in accordance with international democratic standards and under conditions conducive to the widest possible participation.

"The Security Council reiterates that the future holding of elections is a fundamental step towards the restoration of democracy and stability in Haiti," he said.

The revised electoral calendar and its corresponding budget should be realistic and comprehensive, encompassing national, municipal and local elections, the statement said.

It also called upon all relevant international stakeholders to continue to collaborate closely with the Transitional Government of Haiti and other national authorities to this end.

Source: Xinhua