VP/HR — Tibet

18.10.2017

Question for written answer E-006541-17
to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)
Rule 130
Charles Tannock (ECR)

In Tibet, the national anthem and flag have been banned by the Chinese authorities. Writers, activists and ordinary citizens are routinely detained simply for expressing criticism of the Chinese Government. Full freedom of speech is a right denied to Tibetans.

Meanwhile, trade between the EU and China surpasses EUR 1 billion per day, making China the EU’s second-largest trading partner. The EU is in a strong position to advocate for human rights within China and yet Tibet was mentioned only once in the EU’s joint communication and not at all after the 18th bilateral summit.

Considering the EU’s strong bargaining position,

1. Will the EU pledge to prioritise human rights in the next EU-China Joint Commission?

2. Following the Human Rights Dialogue between the EU and China in June this year, what steps are being taken to raise again the issue of Tibet with the Chinese Government?