23/10/2003 (Agence Europe) - On behalf of the EU, the Italian Presidency has welcomed the appointment of the new President of Bolivia, Carlos Diego de Mesa Gisbert. In a declaration, the EU "expresses the wish that full respect for democratic principles will avoid further violent confrontation and that a constructive dialogue will lead to overcome the current crisis". It notes "with satisfaction the intention of President Mesa to promote the participation in the democratic system of all the components of the Bolivian society and to strengthen the fight against corruption". Recalling the conclusions of the European Council of 17 October, the declaration confirms that the EU will continue to assist Bolivia in strengthening its institutions and human rights. Commissioner Chris Patten indicated this week that the Commission is "prepared to devote extra resources to co-operation with Bolivia, in order to support concrete projects in the fight of conflict prevention".