Brussels, 22/12/2010 (Agence Europe) - The authorities in Guinea Bissau will shortly be invited by the EU to go to Brussels to attend political consultation aimed at finding a solution to the violation of democratic principles and rule of law in that country, and at setting in place a strategy for taking the country out of crisis. On 20 December, the European Commission submitted a proposal along these lines to the Council of the EU regarding the situation in the wake of the mutiny of 1 April 2010. For Europeans, an acceptable solution would be the end of unlawful detention and impunity, strengthened civil authority, the acceptance of a possible international stabilisation mission and resumption of security sector reform.
“We trust that discussion will make it possible to address the situation and thus constructively lay the foundations for a strengthened relationship between the EU and Guinea Bissau”, explained Andris Piebalgs, European Commissioner for Development Policy. Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, takes the view that the situation created calls for overall involvement by the EU in Guinea Bissau to be reviewed. Political discussion is suggested under Article 96 of the Cotonou Agreement linking the EU to the ACP Group states (Africa/Caribbean/Pacific) should one of the essential elements of the agreement (human rights, democratic principles, rule of law, good management of public affairs) not be respected. If the Council follows the Commission, a letter will be addressed to the authorities of Guinea Bissau, and debate should be conclusive, failing which cooperation between the EU and this country could be partially, if not completely, suspended. However, this eventuality is always a last resort decision. (A.N./transl.jl)