(27, Dec 2011, Brussels)--The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:
"High Representative Catherine Ashton notes with serious concern the judgment and sentencing of the two Swedish journalists Martin Schibbye and Johan Persson under the Ethiopian Anti- Terrorism Proclamation.
Martin Schibbye and Johan Persson have been in Ethiopia as journalists conducting research. They have pleaded guilty for having illegally entered Ethiopia but denied any involvement in terrorist activities.
Their sentencing on terrorism related charges raises concerns about the freedom of media and expression in Ethiopia. While recognising the Ethiopian judicial process, we hope that the two journalists can be released as soon as possible.
The EU will continue to closely monitor this case and will continue our dialogue with the Ethiopian Government on press freedom and human rights."
Source: Council of the European Union
"High Representative Catherine Ashton notes with serious concern the judgment and sentencing of the two Swedish journalists Martin Schibbye and Johan Persson under the Ethiopian Anti- Terrorism Proclamation.
Martin Schibbye and Johan Persson have been in Ethiopia as journalists conducting research. They have pleaded guilty for having illegally entered Ethiopia but denied any involvement in terrorist activities.
Their sentencing on terrorism related charges raises concerns about the freedom of media and expression in Ethiopia. While recognising the Ethiopian judicial process, we hope that the two journalists can be released as soon as possible.
The EU will continue to closely monitor this case and will continue our dialogue with the Ethiopian Government on press freedom and human rights."
Source: Council of the European Union
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