22/01/2007 (Agence Europe) -On behalf of the EU, the German Presidency published a statement last Friday in which it notes "with great concern the increasing tensions in the Republic of Guinea". The Presidency describes the loss of human lives during on 17 and 18 January in Conakry, Labé and Mamou as "particularly alarming" and calls on all parties to "avoid any acts of intimidation or actions that could lead to violent clashes". It calls upon the government, the unions, the security forces, the political parties and civil society leaders to continue their dialogue and to "do their utmost to ensure that the political changes deemed necessary are carried out peacefully and in keeping with the Constitution". The EU also reaffirms its commitment to supporting the process of democratisation and the reinforcement of the rule of law in Guinea. (ol)