Islamabad, May 11 : The overall environment in Saturday's general elections in Pakistan was "very encouraging" and people were "much enthusiastic" about choosing the next leadership of the country, the European Union Observers Mission said.

The technical arrangements made by the Election Commission of Pakistan were "satisfactory and well equipped", state-run Radio Pakistan quoted EU Observers Mission chief Michael Gahler as saying.

Gahler said the mission will issue a preliminary statement shortly while the final report with recommendations for future elections will be issued after Ramadan.

Voting was held Saturday for 269 of the 342 seats of the National Assembly and 728 seats in four provincial assemblies. (IANS)