Answer given by Vice-President Mogherini on behalf of the Commission

12.1.2018

During the 19th EU-China Summit, the Presidents of the European Council and of the European Commission conveyed EU's concerns about the human rights situation in China, with regard to the restrictions on freedom of expression and the treatment of ethnic and religious minorities, especially in Tibet and Xinjiang. The EU made clear that treating human beings with dignity and respect is essential if citizens are to fulfil themselves and flourish creatively.

Following the Summit, the 35th round of the EU-China Human Rights Dialogue[1] took place on 22-23 June 2017 in Brussels. During the Dialogue, the EU conveyed its concerns and questions about the situation in Tibet, on freedom of expression, freedom of religion and belief, the demolitions at the Larung Gar Academy and the expulsion of monastic individuals. The EU asked that all individuals detained in connection with their advocacy of human rights be released from custody, not least the Tibetan activists, writers and religious figures who face criminal charges or have been imprisoned for exercising their right to freedom of expression, such as Tashi Wangchuk, Druklo and Lobsang Kunchok.

Although there are significant differences of opinion between the EU and China on human rights issues, the EU will continue to urge the Chinese government to respect human rights, in line with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which China has signed, and its obligations under international law.

• [1] https://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/china/28768/human-rights-dialogue-between-european-union-and-china_en