The EU is deeply concerned about the ongoing reports of unrest in Tibet and conveys its
deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims. The EU is urgently
seeking further clarification of the situation from the Chinese Government.
The EU calls for restraint on all sides. We urge the Chinese authorities to refrain from
using force against those involved in unrest and call on demonstrators to desist from
violence.
The EU stresses the importance it attaches to the right of freedom of expression and
peaceful protest. We call on Chinese authorities to respond to the demonstrations in
accordance with internationally recognised democratic principles.
The EU firmly supports peaceful reconciliation between Chinese authorities and the Dalai
Lama and his representatives. The EU urges the Chinese government to address the
concerns of Tibetans with regard to issues of human rights.
The EU encourages both sides to enter into a substantive and constructive dialogue with a
view to reach a sustainable solution acceptable to all that would fully respect the Tibetan
culture, religion and identity.
The Candidate Countries Turkey, Croatia* and the former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia*, the Countries of the Stabilisation and Association Process and potential
candidates Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro, and the EFTA countries Iceland,
Liechtenstein and Norway, members of the European Economic Area, align themselves
with this declaration.
* Croatia and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia continue to be part of the
Stabilisation and Association Process.