14/02/2014 (Agence Europe) - EU on the alert over social unrest and shootings. On 12 February, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton stated that she “is following with concern” the incidents that took place in Venezuela on 12 February - where demonstrations of social unrest degenerated. At least three people were killed and many were wounded across the country, in clashes between pro-government protesters and those opposed to the regime of Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro. In a press release published on 14 February, Ashton gave her support to the call for calm made by both parties. “Freedom of expression and the right to participate in peaceful demonstrations are essential”, she said, calling on both parties “to pursue peaceful dialogue”. She also called on the authorities in Venezuela “to reach out to all segments of Venezuelan society”. (EH/transl.fl)