Press Release: Guinea-Bissau: Commission proposes opening of consultations because of failure to respect democratic principles

The Commission has proposed to the Member States the opening of consultations with Guinea-Bissau. This initiative, which is based on Article 96 of the Cotonou Agreement concluded between the EU and 76 African, Caribbean and Pacific countries, reflects concern about the situation in Guinea-Bissau in terms of respect for democratic principles and the rule of law. The decision also indicates a willingness to put in place a strategy to end the crisis together with the various parties involved. The proposal to open consultations will be examined by the 27 EU Member States before consultations begin.