(Adnkronos) – The European Union notes “with concern” the verdicts confirmed by the Tunisian Court of Cassation on September 3 in the trial concerning the so-called “plot against state security,” which concluded with heavy prison sentences for dozens of political figures, activists, human rights defenders, and journalists, including EU citizens. This was stated by the new spokesperson for the European External Action Service, Christian Wigand, in a note.
“Some questions remain regarding the full respect for fair trial guarantees,” writes the spokesperson. “As it regularly does in its exchanges with the Tunisian authorities, the EU reiterates the importance of ensuring full respect for human rights, including freedom of expression, and respect for the right to a fair trial.” Furthermore, Brussels “deplores that contacts with diplomats accredited in Tunisia, including European ones, have been used as a charge or an element against them.”
Reaffirming its commitment to partnership with Tunis, the EU assures that it will continue to support the Tunisian population in efforts to consolidate democratic institutions and promote fundamental rights, finally appealing to the country’s authorities to restore the necessary conditions to allow pluralism and independent voices to contribute to national development.
