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

13.1.2015

The VP/HR is aware of the case of Mr Ablyazov, which is subject to bilateral extradition agreements between a Member State and third countries, and not to EC law. The Commission has no competence to intervene in his case.

The European Union continues to monitor closely the human rights situation in Kazakhstan and formal and informal opportunities are used to encourage Kazakhstan to respect its international obligations. The EU will continue to address human rights issues, including individual cases, in its political dialogue with Kazakhstan. Human rights issues are raised consistently and at all levels, notably in the framework of the annual Human Rights Dialogue.

In October 2014, the European Union and the Republic of Kazakhstan concluded the negotiations of the EU — Kazakhstan Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement. The new agreement includes a number of key articles relating to human rights, rule of law, and democracy, and, once signed and entered into force, it will provide a framework and opportunities for stepped up cooperation between the EU and Kazakhstan in the field of human rights.