31 May 2005 - DECLARATION on UZBEKISTAN adopted by THE NATO PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY*

1. The members of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly are extremely troubled and concerned by recent events in Uzbekistan. They unanimously condemn the disproportionate use of force by Uzbek security forces against opposition protesters and civilians in Andijan and other places.

2. The Assembly strongly supports the United Nations' and NATO's calls for an independent international inquiry into these events. It also urges the Uzbek authorities to allow such an investigation and assist international officials in carrying it out.

3. In the event that the Uzbek government refuses an international inquiry, the Assembly recommends that:

a) the participation of Uzbekistan in the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council be reconsidered, and

b) all NATO nations reconsider and eventually suspend any support to the Uzbek armed forces.

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*  presented by the Standing Committee to the Plenary Assembly and adopted (Ljubljana, Slovenia, 31 May 2005)