Brussels, 14/03/2011 (Agence Europe) - In the context of European Council discussions on the Europe's Southern Neighbourhood, the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) has reiterated “in the strongest possible terms” its condemnation of the massacre of civilians by the Gaddafi regime in Libya. It also stresses the need for the EU as a whole to take a lead in supporting the Arab Spring based on “our commitment to freedom, democracy and the rule of law”. “This Arab Spring is a wake-up call and a lesson for Europe. Europe should not export lessons but offer partnership and support predicated on the respect of universally recognised human and trade union rights, including the protection of minorities”, said John Monks, ETUC General Secretary. In a letter to EU High Representative Catherine Ashton, with Social Affairs Commissioner László Andor in copy, Monks says that, for the European trade union movement, massive unemployment among young people in the region is a central issue that Europe must help resolve, responding to the needs expressed by the peoples concerned. He pledged the ETUC's support for initiatives being undertaken by the Commission in social dialogue, and once again called for labour and social affairs attachés to be included in EEAS delegations. For further information, go to: http://www.etuc.org (G.B./transl.rt)