24/02/2003 (Agence Europe) - The Greek Presidency published the following declaration on 20 February on behalf of the EU, to which the candidate countries and EFTA countries have aligned themselves: "The EU has followed with deep concern the events in Bolivia of 12 and 13 of February and condemns the acts of violence that occurred. The EU laments the loss of lives and expresses its condolences and solidarity to the Bolivian people. The Union reaffirms its determination to continue its cooperation with Bolivia to promote respect and trust for democratic principles, assist with economic recovery and to support Bolivia's efforts to alleviate poverty. The EU emphasises the importance of solving all outstanding issues through dialogue and urges political parties and civil society to commit themselves to seek solutions through a broad national consensus with the legitimate Government of Bolivia, in full respect of the rule of law and state institutions. The EU reiterates the importance in this process of safeguarding the institutions of Democracy in the framework of the rule of law."