Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 June 2012
48 Deputy Anne Ferris asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on reports that approximately 600 Tibetans have been detained in their homeland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27456/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is closely following the reports of the detention of several hundred Tibetans by the Chinese authorities and is concerned about this volatile situation.
Ireland together with our EU partners believes that constructive dialogue between the Chinese Government and the representatives of the Dalai Lama is the best way to address differences and tensions in Tibet and to reach a solution that respects Tibetan culture, language, religion and identity. It is important for the long-term peace and stability of the region that the two sides come to an agreement on the future of Tibet. To this end, we continue to encourage an early resumption of dialogue by the parties.
The promotion of human rights is an important dimension of European foreign policy, as enshrined in the Treaty of the European Union. Constructive dialogue remains the EU's preferred channel for working to improve the human rights situation in China. Human rights are discussed as part of regular political dialogue as well as during specific human rights dialogues with China which have taken place since 1995.
The Irish Government continues to convey its concerns about the situation in Tibet directly to the Chinese authorities through regular contacts in both Dublin and Beijing. The issue of Tibet is also raised by the European Union in its dialogue with China. Most recently, the EU raised the issue of Tibet last week at the 31st round of the EU-China human rights dialogue in Brussels.
