Dharamshala, India: - The European Union delegation to China voiced disappointment on Thursday after Chinese leaders failed to its proposals for dates in order to hold this year's 'EU-China Dialogue on Human Rights,' said a statement posted on the EU official website.
Dr. Lobsang Sangay, the Tibetan political leader was on his three day trip in European capital Brussels last month (27-29 November) at the invitation of parliament's Tibet inter-group and was the keynote speaker at the "Tibet conference on genuine autonomy." Members of the European Parliament also criticized China's Treatment of Tibetans, accusing the Chinese regime of pursuing a "brutal" policy in Tibet.
"The EU deeply regrets that the second session of the EU-China Dialogue on Human Rights in 2011 will not take place as previously agreed," said in a statement issued by the European Union Delegation to China.
The delegation stated that "It is disappointed by the absence of an answer by the Chinese side to its proposals for dates in order to hold this session of the Dialogue before the end of the year. It notes that this is the second year in a row in which the second session of the Dialogue is canceled."
"This essential component of the relationship between two strategic partners offers an invaluable platform to discuss all issues of concern. It contributes to improve our mutual understanding," said in the statement.
The promotion of human rights is an important dimension of European foreign policy, as enshrined in the Treaty of the European Union. The EU holds regular dialogues and consultations with more than 40 countries of all continents and will remain committed to the fulfillment of its obligations under international law.
In a separate statement, the Head of the EU Delegation to China, Markus Ederer, added that the EU will continue to engage the Chinese side to enhance the quality and format of the Dialogue.
During his three day visit, Dr. Sangay met with leading politicians and MEPs and addressed the European parliament's foreign affairs committee during its meeting. European government officials also strongly voiced concern about the rising number of recent self-immolations by Tibetans in Tibet, Dr. Sangay stated that his administration does not endorse the practice.
