EU officials saddened by situation in Thailand
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The Head of the Delegation of the European Union and the Heads of Mission of the European Union Member States represented in Thailand are hopeful that all parties in Thailand would find a peaceful solution to end the political impasses.
In a statement released today, they said that with strong and longstanding ties with Thailand, they are saddened to see the loss of life and the violent escalation of previously peaceful demonstrations during this weekend.
The following is the full statement:
"The European Union and Thailand have strong and longstanding ties. These ties have bound us together in areas such as trade, tourism, investments, culture and people to people contacts.
The European Union is strongly committed to the principles of democratic governance, the rule of law and freedom of expression.
Against that background, we were saddened to see the loss of life and the violent escalation of previously peaceful demonstrations during this weekend. We were also very concerned to see the occupation of public office buildings, television broadcasting stations and intimidation of the media.
We believe that the response of the Thai authorities has so far been restrained and proportionate.
We hope that all parties will find a peaceful way forward within the democratic and constitutional framework of Thailand."
