14/02/2007 (Agence Europe) - In a press release published on 14 February, the European Commission expresses its extreme concern about the worsening of the political situation in Guinea, and strongly condemns the effective suspension of individuals' rights and fundamental freedoms further to the declared state of siege in the country. It deplores the loss of human life following violent action taken by the forces of law and order, the continued violation of human rights and the suppression of freedom. It also deplores the repressive measures implemented against private radios and regrets that such radio stations have been pillaged, their personnel arrested and themselves forced to suspend broadcasting. Commissioner Louis Michel deplores the refusal by Guinean authorities to heed the many calls for moderation and dialogue, and condemns the loss of human life and lack of respect of human rights or principles of rule of law, which are essential elements of the Cotonou Agreement of which Guinea is a signatory. (ol)