AMBASSADOR PASCUAL ON THE KHRESHCHATYK TENT CITY

U.S. Ambassador Carlos Pascual made the following comments on March 1 about this morning’s events on Khreshchatyk, while speaking at the opening of the website of the Ukrainian Think Tank Network at the IREX ProMedia press center:

“I need to note that the United States regrets this morning’s actions by Ukrainian law enforcement authorities to disband the peaceful demonstration which was taking place along the street on Khreshchatyk.

“We are also concerned by the apparent prohibition on further demonstrations and are seeking clarification of the exact nature of restrictions that might have been contained in the court order on which these recent actions were based.

“Certainly, we recognize that all countries require laws and procedures for public assemblies and demonstrations. And the key test for democratic society is whether the state creates channels where people can express dissent through peaceful means. On many occasions the Ukrainian government has indicated its commitment to resolve political issues using constitutional means. To engage in a dialogue with the opposition. To take steps to conduct and conclude a more transparent investigation of the Gongadze case.

“In fact in recent weeks in many discussions that we have had with Ukrainian officials – in the Foreign Ministry, in the Presidential Administration – they have often pointed to the tents on Khreshchatyk as a sign of the development of Ukrainian democracy.

“We would strongly urge the Government of Ukraine to honor its commitments to create and develop a democratic state and to find ways to allow its citizens to express dissent and express their views.”