The International Campaign for Tibet welcomes the statement on Tibet made by the governments of the United States and the European Union at the U.S.-EU Summit on June 10. The governments should be commended for insisting that the dialogue between the representatives of the Dalai Lama and the Chinese government be “substantive, constructive and results-oriented dialogue.” Unified international support for the rights of Tibetans is critical at this time, given the ominous announcement by Chinese authorities that they are preparing “the second phase of work against separatist activity in the region.” As heads of state prepare for the G-8 Summit in July, ICT urges governments to press China to open up Tibet, end repressive policies, and work toward concrete results in the dialogue with the representatives of the Dalai Lama.
2008 U.S. – EU Summit Declaration (excerpt)
“We offer our deepest condolences to the people of China for the earthquake victims in Sichuan. Recognizing China’s growing role as an engaged member of the international community, we will continue our constructive engagement and will encourage China to assume a greater role in helping to tackle issues of global concern, such as the international financial and trading system, climate change, sustainable development and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. We also encourage greater regional integration as a means for promoting prosperity and stability in East Asia. We are concerned about the recent unrest in Tibet and urge all sides to refrain from further violence. We welcome China’s recent decision to hold talks with the Dalai Lama’s representatives. We encourage both parties to move forward with a substantive, constructive and results-oriented dialogue at an early date. We urge China to take substantive steps to allow its citizens to enjoy internationally recognized human rights. We encourage China to address its poor human rights record.”
The full text of the declaration can be found at http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2008/06/20080610-8.html