Local view for "http://purl.org/linkedpolitics/eu/plenary/2003-04-10-Speech-4-143"
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"en.20030410.7.4-143"2
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". – Mr President, I wish to begin my reply, on behalf of the Commission, by saying that the Commission is seriously concerned about the recent detentions and trials of journalists and opposition supporters by the Cuban authorities.
The European Union has made a declaration strongly condemning those measures. That was followed by a
of the troika in Havana on 26 March 2003 in which the Commission participated.
The grave concern which was felt was highlighted in the European Union’s statement on human rights in the world at the United Nations Commission on Human Rights in Geneva last week. The statement called for the prompt release of those whom the Union considers to be prisoners of opinion.
The human rights situation is and will remain an important aspect of our relationship with Cuba. The European Commission believes that a policy of dialogue is the most effective way to help bring about a positive evolution in this respect.
In order to facilitate a peaceful transition, the European Union follows, under the common position, a policy of 'constructive engagement' with Cuba. The EU common position distances itself from the use of coercive measures which might increase the hardship of the people of Cuba. Instead, it gives priority to a constructive dialogue with the Cuban authorities and civil society. In a nutshell: the European Union is of the firm conviction that a policy of constructive dialogue has more chance of success than one of isolation and embargoes.
As far as Cuba’s request for accession to the Cotonou Agreement is concerned, that could provide a good framework to continue and deepen a meaningful dialogue with the Cuban authorities, in particular in the field of human rights. Respect for human rights, democratic principles and the rule of law are essential elements of that agreement.
The Commission is therefore preparing a communication on that subject, in which it will present a full assessment of the situation, including an assessment of the most propitious timing for Cuban accession to the Cotonou Agreement. This is my response on behalf of the Commission, and, in particular, of my colleague Mr Nielson."@en1
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