Luxembourg, 11/10/2004 (Agence Europe) - The question of lifting the arms embargo on exports of weapons to China was discussed on Monday by EU foreign affairs ministers but as expected, not decision was taken. The president of the Council, Bernard Bot, told the press that they needed more time to discuss this sensitive issue. The presidency is hoping that the Council will soon be able to give a positive orientation on the arms embargo, he added. But before taking such a decision, the Council will have to again study the "package" of measures, notably the strengthening of the code of conduct applying to exports of weapons to China. Mr Bot said that "many items are not yet clear…there is no linkage between lifting of the arms embargo and human rights". He said that they would certainly be pleased if China sent out some positive signals in this area, for example by ratifying the Convention of political rights or releasing prisoners held since the Tiannamen Square events.
Specific conclusions wee adopted by the Council on dialogue with China and continuing human rights violations of freedom of expression, association and religion. But he also noted in a more long term perspective of a positive trend with improvements concerning the State of Law, economic rights and a reduction in the influence of citizens" daily living conditions. Political dialogue remains an effective means for obtaining other improvements, affirmed the Council.