European Parliament Urges Holding Repeat Elections In Belarus 18:29, 21/03/2006
The European Parliament has recognized the presidential elections in Belarus undemocratic, and called upon holding repeat elections, and by that supported demands of the Belarusian opposition. “Alyaksandr Lukashenka cannot be recognized a President,” the Polish press agency quotes the position of the European Parliament delegation, which representatives have not been allowed to monitor the elections in Belarus. The European Parliament delegation headed by MEP Bogdan Klich, notes that these elections were held in the atmosphere of fear and intimidation. The position of the delegation of the European Parliament is that citizens of Belarus have a right to choose a president according to really democratic principles, that is why repeat elections in the country should be held in the country consistent with all international standards.
The chairman of the largest faction in the European Parliament Hans-Gerd Petering noted that the European Parliament will support the Belarusian opposition in its bid for new fair elections.
He underlined that 82% of support for Lukashenka could be called by the only word: “Farce”.
Mr Petering urged the Belarusian government to release all detained oppositionists, and not to apply force.
He expressed full support to the candidate of the united opposition Alyaksandr Milinkevich, and to all democratic forces, non-governmental organizations in their efforts to achieve democracy and freedom in Belarus.
President of the European Parliament Josep Borrell stated that violation of international standards coupled with constant aggravation of political situation and violation of fundamental human rights in Belarus would not stay beyond our vision of the EU in its relations with Belarus.
Mr Borrel noted that the Belarusian elections would be characterized by a large part of injustice, cases of applying force, arrests.
The European Parliament expressed support of the Belarusian opposition and urged the European Union used all possibilities to limit possibilities for the Belarusian regime representatives to act. The MEPs find it necessary to expand the list of the representatives of the Belarusian regime who would be banned entry to the EU countries.
The European Parliament seeks facilitation of receiving visas for the Belarusians, including the activists of non-governmental organizations.
The European Parliament offers to create additional programs of youth exchange between the EU and Belarus.
Dear Colleagues. Remember, please, you are expected to refer to the Charter`97 Press Center when using the site materials. News export , javascript-informer
, javascript-informer
