WRITTEN QUESTION E-0138/00 by Claude Moraes (PSE) to the Commission. Human rights violations in Tunisia.
C 280 E/184 Official Journal of the European Communities EN 3. 10. 2000 (2000/C 280 E/212) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0138/00 by Claude Moraes (PSE) to the Commission (27 January 2000) Subject: Human rights violations in Tunisia It has been reported that the Tunisian authorities continue to harass members of opposition groups and their families, with particular regard to restrictions on freedom of movement and the denial of passports. Article 2 of the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement signed on 17 July 1995 (COM(95) 235 final) commits Tunisia to árespect for human rights and democratic principlesí, and Parliament expressed its concern in its resolution on human rights in Tunisia of May 1996 (1) Is the Commission aware of the case of Ms Radhia Aouididi, whose movements have been continually restricted in Tunisia and who is denied a passport to leave the country? Will the Commission ensure that human rights continue to be viewed as a crucial issue in its dialogue with the Tunisian Government? (1) OJ C 166, 10. 6. 1996, p. 204. Answer given by Mr Patten on behalf of the Commission (24 February 2000) Respect for fundamental freedoms is an essential element in the Association Agreement between the Community and Tunisia, and is no less important in our political dialogue. The second ministerial meeting in the institutional dialogue, which took place in Brussels on 24 January 2000, was an opportunity for the partners to take stock on the issue of respect for human rights. The Commission, like the Member States in the context of the common foreign and security policy, is closely monitoring allegations regarding the protection of freedoms in Tunisia, in particular those citing restrictions on the freedom of movement. It believes that by means of constructive dialogue and positive support measures, and in line with commitments entered into under the Euro-Mediterranean partnership, the Community can work together with Tunisia in the process of human rights reform. (2000/C 280 E/213) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0143/00 by Alexandros Alavanos (GUE/NGL) to the Commission Subject: Town planning in an area with high seismic activity (20 January 2000) In the Commissionís reply to my question No E-1882/99 (1) concerning town planning in the Community of Rio, it indicated that the Rio town planning survey was not receiving cofunding under the Community support framework for Greece for the period 1994-1999. However, the Ministry of the Environment, Regional Planning and Public Works categorically stated in its report (of 5 November 1997, No 32533/ 10402) that the studies in question were being funded under the second Community support framework running until the end of 1999. In view of this, can the Commission re-examine the question and give a definitive reply? (1) OJ C 203 E, 18. 7. 2000, p. 80