World leaders congratulated the nation on the vote, which Bush said had been "a major step forward in Afghanistan's development as a democratic state governed by the rule of law."
British Prime Minister Tony Blair said, "Once again the Afghan people have shown how determined they are to build a better future for their country."
The EU called the election a "milestone on the road to peace and stability."
Fraud fears
There were fears in the run-up to the polls that warlords and drug lords could try to tamper with the ballots.
Erben said fraud would be virtually impossible because the ballot boxes were closed with strong metal seals and monitors would be with them while they were transported.
"We have even made one seat available in each actual convoy for independent observers," he said.
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