Woordvoerder Catherine Ashton over politiek geweld in Bangladesh (en)

EUROPEAN UNION

Brussels, 08 May 2013 A

Statement by the spokesperson of EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on political violence in Bangladesh

The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

"The High Representative is deeply concerned about the escalation of political confrontation in Bangladesh. The mounting political violence in recent months, including attacks on minorities and their homes and places of worship, has already led to the loss of too many lives and has caused too many injuries.

The High Representative has called on all sections of society in Bangladesh to renounce and take steps to end the violence, and for the main parties to engage in constructive dialogue inside and outside the parliament.

The High Representative also urges the major parties to engage in constructive discussions at the earliest opportunity on the practical arrangements for the forthcoming elections. It is essential that the elections are credible, transparent and fully representative. The EU is already engaged in supporting the Election Commission and will consider sending observers as we did in 2008. "