EU requests Polisario to release without delay all Moroccan prisoners
Morocco-European Union, Politics, 3/6/2003

The European Union called this Wednesday the Polisario to release without delay all Moroccan prisoners of war still held in Tindouf and urged for distinguishing between humanitarian aspects and political problems in the Sahara issue.

The EU rotating presidency, held presently by Greece, argued that the recent liberation of 100 Moroccan prisoners would "contribute to promote dialogue and trust between the concerned parties."

However, it went on, since 1,160 Moroccans are still held prisoners, some of whom since the conflict breakout in 1975, the EU expects the Polisario to release immediately all of the remaining prisoners of war.

Greece says the humanitarian aspects of the issue remain a source of concern to the EU which has repeatedly undertaken moves with the concerned parties. An appeal was also launched to improve the humanitarian situation of these people and of the population affected by the protracted crisis.

The EU further reiterates "full support" to the UN secretary general and his personal envoy in their efforts to find a lasting settlement that respects international legality.

Brussels also encourages "all contacts likely to contribute to restoring confidence between parties."

All of the EU member-countries, associate countries (Cyprus, Czech republic, Estonia, the Slovak republic), countries candidate to membership (Bulgaria, Rumania, and Turkey) and countries of the European free trade association (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and Norway) are adhering to this declaration.

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