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Mar 20: Plassnik on Tibet: "No to a policy of blind eyes and deaf ears" |
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Foreign Minister on Chinese Ambassador
Vienna, 20 March 2008 - "We must actively counteract an escalation of the situation in Tibet and in the neighbouring regions, - with deeds, but also with words", stressed Foreign Minister to the Chinese Ambassador in Vienna. The Minister invited the ambassador to the Foreign Ministry to express her personal concern and the concern of the Federal Government over the situation in Tibet and the neighbouring provinces.
At the same time, Plassnik made it clear that the incident during a demonstration for Tibet in front of the Chinese embassy represents a clear violation of Austrian laws: "The attempt to enter the embassy premises using force has nothing to do with the right to peaceful demonstration and assembly, and must be clearly condemned", she stressed. "This behaviour certainly does not benefit what is in itself a justified cause. We are examining this regrettable incident. We will take the necessary steps together with the Interior Ministry to guarantee the protection of the embassy."
The Minister reiterated the clear position of the Austrian Federal Government on the situation in Tibet and on the disproportionate use of force against peaceful protesters. She pointed out that the Austrian public is following the events in Tibet with great interest.
Plassnik reminded that Austria shapes its relations to China on the basis of the "one-China policy". She once again emphasized, however, the need for a serious and direct dialogue between the Chinese leadership and the Dalai Lama: "For us, the Dalai Lama is an important religious leader and a symbol of non-violence. The recent developments particularly demonstrate how important such a dialogue is. A policy of blind eyes and deaf ears is not a recipe for the future", said Plassnik, who also clearly rejected the choice of words by high-ranking Chinese officials.
Plassnik added: "Barring the international public out of Tibet is fuelling our concern about the developments there. China must choose the path of dialogue and demonstrate the greatest possible openness and transparency". Moreover, the Minister demanded clarity over the fate of the arrested protesters and a guarantee for the security of the EU citizens who remain in the country.
Contact:
Federal Ministry for
European and International
Affairs Press Department
Tel.: ++43 (0) 50 1150-3262, 4549, 4550
Fax: ++43 (0) 50 1159-213
abti3(at)bmeia.gv.at
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