Declaration of the EU Foreign Ministers at the Meeting in Bremen on March 30

March 30, 2007

The European Union deplores the continued arrest of 15 British citizens by Iran on 23rd of March and underlines the European Union's unconditional support for the government of the United Kingdom.

All evidence clearly indicates that at the time of the seizure, the British Naval personnel were on a routine patrolling mission in Iraqi waters in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1723. The seizure by Iranian Forces therefore constitutes a clear breach of international law.

The European Union repeats its call for the immediate and unconditional release of the British Royal Naval personnel. The European Union furthermore calls on Iran to immediately inform the government of the United Kingdom about the whereabouts of the British Naval personnel and grant consular access. The fundamental rights of all prisoners in Iran must be scrupulously respected.

The EU Foreign Ministers requested the High Representative to present the EU position to the Iranian government.

Should the UK citizens not be released in the near future, the EU will decide on appropriate measures.

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