In a statement for MIA, the European Commission Spokesperson Maja Kocijancic concludes that the 1st round of the 2019 presidential election in Macedonia has been conducted in peaceful and democratic atmosphere. “The first round of presidential elections took place in a peaceful and transparent manner. However, additional reform of the electoral law is needed. It is necessary to complete the started reform of the electoral law. We encourage citizens to use their democratic right and to turn out in large numbers in the May 5 runoff in order to have their vote valid. Brussels urges all sides to secure the necessary conditions for a credible and transparent electoral process and general political stability,” Kocijancic said.