Catherine Ashton on expulsions by the Lebanese authorities of Syrian nationals to Syria

Brussels, 4 August 2012

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Statement by the Spokesperson of High Representative

Catherine Ashton on expulsions by the Lebanese authorities

of Syrian nationals to Syria

The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign

Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the Commission, issued the following statement

today:

“The High Representative is concerned by the recent reports of expulsion by the Lebanese

authorities of Syrian nationals to Syria. As a party to the U Convention Against Torture, Lebanon

has a clear legal obligation that no person is returned or extradited to a State where they could be

subjected to torture. Today Syria is in a situation where people's lives are at risk across the

country, including well documented reports of torture. Lebanon must ensure that no deportation

takes place outside the framework of its international obligations, and that effective and transparent

procedures are in place, in consultation with all appropriate domestic and international

organisations in particular with UHCR.

The Lebanese government has given assurances with regard to the respect for its international

obligations and has extended support to those fleeing the violence in Syria. The EU is assisting the

Lebanese authorities in addressing the constraints and challenges this situation places on the

country, in terms of rule of law, protection, safety and security, social and economic development.

The EU reiterates expectations concerning the responsibility of the Lebanese authorities to continue

to provide protection, in line with the principle of non-refoulement."

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P R E S S

FOR FURTHER DETAILS:

Michael Mann +32 498 999 780 - +32 2 299 97 80 - [email protected]

Maja Kocijancic +32 498 984 425 - +32 2 298 65 70 - [email protected]

Sebastien Brabant +32 498 986 433 - [email protected]

[email protected]

www.eeas.europa.eu

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بيان المتحدث باسم الممثلة العليا كاثرين أشتون يعرب عن القلق من ترحيل السلطات اللبنانية مواطنين سوريين إلى سورية.