Italy awaiting observer data on referendum: FM Alfano

By Baris Seckin

ROME (AA) - Italy acknowledged Turkey’s historic referendum results Monday, suggesting that a fuller response would come once it sees reports by international election observers.

"We acknowledge the results of the referendum and await completion of the verifications and final assessment” of the Organization for Security and Co-Operation in Europe (OSCE) observation mission, said Italian Foreign Minister Angelino Alfano.

In a statement, Alfano added that they want the Turkish opposition to be included in implementation of the new reforms for a presidential system.

Turkish voters went to the polls on Sunday to decide whether to approve changes to the country’s constitution that would usher in an executive presidency.

According to unofficial results, the Yes campaign won with 51.41 percent, while the No votes stood at 48.59 percent. Voter turnout was 85.46 percent.