General Secretariat of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group

Communiqué

ACP Group Strongly condemns the coup d’Etat in Guinea Bissau

The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP Group) strongly condemns the military coup d’Etat that occurred on Sunday, 14 September 2003 in one of its member states, Guinea Bissau, and further calls on the perpetrators to immediately restore constitutional democracy.

The ACP Group once again reiterates its adherence to the rule of law, democratic principles, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and good governance, as underscored in the ACP-EU Partnership Agreement signed in Cotonou on 23 June 2000. To this end, the Group strongly urges General Verissimo Correia to allow long-delayed elections to take place in Guinea-Bissau at the earliest opportunity.

The ACP Group is also very concerned with what appears to be an emerging trend of conflicts and instability in some of its member states. For sustainable and real development to take place, an environment of stability, peace and security must prevail.

Efforts and contributions by the West African region and African Union to restore stability and democratic order in Guinea-Bissau are fully supported by the ACP Group. In this process, the people of Guinea-Bissau can count on the solidarity and support of the ACP Group.

Brussels, 15 September 2003