The European Union (EU) on Tuesday welcomed the approval of Iraq's constitution in a referendum, describing it a "key step" toward stability.

"The Iraqi people are to be congratulated," said Benita Ferrero-Waldner, EU commissioner for external relations, in a press release.

"I believe that this vote was a key step toward the building of a stable country in which differences are settled through democratic dialogue," said the commissioner.

The final results of the referendum were officially made publicon Tuesday. The constitution was ratified by 78 percent of the voters. Twenty-one percent said No.

In last Tuesday's referendum, the minority Sunni Arabs failed to muster enough No votes -- two thirds in at least three of the 18 provinces -- to block the constitution. Two provinces passed the threshold, another recorded 55 percent of No votes.

Ferrero-Waldner praised Iraq's Independent Electoral Commissionfor a job well done "in very demanding conditions." She expressed the hope that parliamentary elections in December will be even more inclusive.

She promised that the European Commission, the executive body of the EU, will continue to support the Iraqis in the coming elections, and in their nation-building efforts.

The EU is the most significant international donor supporting the elections and referendum, contributing 80 million euros (96 million US dollars) so far to this process.

(Source: Xinhua)