Text of ETA cease-fire statement

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MADRID, Spain (Reuters) -- Following is the full text of armed separatist group ETA's statement on Wednesday announcing a permanent cease-fire, translated by Reuters:

"A message from Euskadi Ta Askatasuna (ETA) to the Basque people.

"ETA has decided to declare a permanent cease-fire from March 24, 2006.

"The object of this decision is to drive the democratic process in the Basque country in order to construct a new framework in which our rights as a people will be recognized and to ensure the future development of all political options.

"At the end of the process, Basque citizens should have their say and decide on their future.

"The Spanish and French states must recognize the result of this democratic process, with no type of limitation. The decision that we take as Basque citizens should be respected.

"We call on all those involved to act responsibly, consistent with the step being taken by ETA.

"ETA calls on the authorities in Spain and France to respond in a positive manner and set aside repression.

"Finally, we call on Basque citizens to become involved in this process and fight for the rights we deserve as a people.

"ETA has shown its desire and will that the process now begun should reach a conclusion and thus achieve true democracy in the Basque country, overcoming long years of violence and constructing a peace based on justice.

"We reaffirm our commitment to continue to take steps towards this end.

"Here and now, it is possible to overcome the conflict. That is the desire and will of ETA.

"Basque country, March 2006.

"ETA"