Brussels, Apr 4 (IANS): The European Union is sending a huge 100-member mission to observe the general elections in Pakistan to be held May 11, EuAsiaNews reported.

"The forthcoming parliamentary elections in Pakistan will be a historic moment for the democratic development of the country as they mark, for the first time, the transition of power from one elected government to the next," EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said in a statement.

Ashton said she has nominated Michael Gahler, a member of the European Parliament, as chief observer for the mission.

"I am confident that, under the leadership of MEP Michael Gahler, this EOM (Election Observation Mission) will enhance the confidence of Pakistani voters in the process," she said.

The EU mission will remain in Pakistan to observe the final counting of votes and any complaint procedures, and to prepare a full report including recommendations to improve the electoral process.