Bangkok, 2 December 2013 The European Union Delegation has issued the following statement in agreement with the EU Heads of Mission in Thailand:
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.
