Brussels, 03/08/2009 (Agence Europe) - In a statement issued by the Swedish Presidency on 31 July, the European Union expresses its deep concern over the political situation in Niger where the constitutional referendum planned for 4 August is against the ruling of the Constitutional Court, which found it illegal.
The European Union reiterates that the dissolution of the Constitutional Court and the exercise of government powers without parliamentary control are grave violations of core democratic values and the principles of the rule of law.
It regrets that the current government of Niger has so far shown no inclination to return to democratic and constitutional proceedings and emphasises that continuing infringement of essential elements of the Cotonou Agreement (which links the EU to 78 African, Caribbean and Pacific countries) will have serious consequences for cooperation between the EU and Niger.
In the event of infringement of one or more of the essential elements of the Cotonou Agreement (respect for democratic principles, the rule of law and human rights) by one of the parties, Article 96 of the Agreement provides for political consultation between the EU and the ACP party to try to resolve the situation. If the consultation fails, partial, or even full, suspension of cooperation between the EU and the ACP country may result. (A.N./transl.rt)