Verklaring van het EU-voorzitterschap over de versie van leden van de oppositie in Wit-Rusland (en)

The EU Presidency welcomes the recent release of two prominent members of the Belarusian opposition, Nikolai Statkevich and Pavel Severinets. It also welcomes the earlier release - although subject to conditions - of the four members of the organization Partnerstvo convicted in autumn 2006.

The Presidency calls upon the Belarusian Government to release all other political prisoners without delay.

The Presidency also calls for a stop to the repression of opposition youth groups. Following today's judgement against "Malady Front" it appeals to the Belarusian Government to release the already convicted "Malady Front" member Dmitri Dashkevich.

The Presidency reiterates the EU's offer to enter into a full partnership with Belarus within the framework of the European Neighbourhood Policy. However, this cooperation is contingent upon the Belarusian Government professing its strong commitment to democratic values, human rights and the rule of law and initiating democratic reforms.