Brussels, 02/10/2013 (Agence Europe) - The European Union, which is extremely concerned at the situation in the Central African Republic - where there are terror threats and looting by former Seleka rebels - is apparently ready to support financially an African peace force in the country. However, the humanitarian situation and re-establishing order remain the priorities, said Michael Mann, the spokesperson for High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton, on 2 October.
In response to a question from a journalist, Mann said the EU is extremely concerned by the escalation of violence and the massive violations of human rights. These have a destabilising effect which could overrun the local context, and the crisis demands an international response, he said. He continued that the EU supports the African Union in its efforts to restore order and that the EU supported the peace process. The EU welcomes the decision of the African Union to authorise a peace operation, Mann said, and encourages implementation of the peace operation as quickly as possible. He added that the EU was ready to bring financial support to the operation. In order to deal with the particularly worrying humanitarian situation, the EU will increase its aid. To date, €20 million has been committed this year (in comparison with €8 million in 2012) - (see EUROPE 10910). (AN/transl.fl)