Luxembourg, 14/06/2004 (Agence Europe) - On Monday the Council adopted conclusions confirming the common position adopted by the EU on Cuba since 1996. Ministers pointed out that the objective was to encourage, "the peaceful transition process towards a pluralist democracy and respect for human rights and fundamental freedom, as well as economic recovery and the improvement of living conditions for the Cuban people". The Council notes "disappointing progress of the Cuban government towards the objectives of the last assessment in July 2003…In particular, the Council would like to highlight serious concerns about wide-scale human rights violations in Cuba". The Council condemns the trail and sentencing of the 16 human rights activists and journalists last April and May, as well as, "the continued detention of numerous prisoners of conscience, including those arrested during the repression by the Cuban authorities in March and April 2003". Ministers also point out "new restrictions have been imposed on freedom of enterprise since the last assessment". Nevertheless, "the Council notes that although the objectives of the common position have not been attained, the isolation of Cuba will not contribute to this effort" and underlines the importance that the EU attaches to the dialogue. The Council regrets the attitude of Cuba regarding the European delegation to Havana and its refusal "to cooperate with the European Union".