| Eu supports bolivia government Original Source Link: (May no longer be active) http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/L17272168.htmhttp://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/L17272168.htm
17 Oct 2003 05:57:22 GMT EU voices support for embattled Bolivia government
BRUSSELS, Oct 17 (Reuters) - The European Union voiced support on Friday for Bolivia's embattled government, facing a revolt by indigenous Bolivians against poverty and inequality.
"The European Council reaffirms its support for the democratically elected government of Bolivia in its efforts to find a peaceful and constitutional solution to the present crisis," a draft statement at an EU summit said.
It did not endorse President Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada by name and urged the government to fully respect human rights in dealing with mass protests by mainly indigenous Bolivians angered by his U.S.-backed free-market policies.
Calling for dialogue between political and social forces and the government, the EU statement said: "This dialogue must recognise the parliament as the legitimate institution of democracy for consensus building."
An estimated 74 people have been killed in the last month of violent protests.
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