2004 press releases

U.S. Ambassador George Krol Underscores U.S.-EU Unity on World Press Freedom Day (May 4, 2004)

As a representative of the U.S. Government, I want to underscore the U.S. commitment to support the European Union's objectives to encourage the growth and independence of print, electronic, and television media throughout the region.

In affirmation of our common goals, I joined European Union Ambassadors May 3 in a meeting with the editorial staff of Belorusskaya Delovaya Gazeta to express solidarity with the aims of the independent media in Belarus. The United States stands firmly with the European Union ambassadors in their continued support for freedom of speech and expression in Belarus.

The United States also joins in the sentiments expressed in a press release issued by the French Embassy May 3. The United States underscores the concerns of European Ambassadors, cited in that document, over the worsening of the situation in which the mass print media in Belarus find themselves. The United States also underscores the concerns of European Ambassadors over the increasing restrictions on the right of Belarusian citizens to receive comprehensive information about the developments in this country.

During the past four months at least five mass media outlets in Belarus have stopped publication. The case of Belorusskaya Delovaya Gazeta, which was suspended for three months, is a glaring example in this regard. We have repeatedly tried to engage Belarusian authorities in a discussion of this unfortunate situation but have been unable to do so.

During the meeting May 3 at BDG, I asked everyone in attendance to observe a moment of silence to honor those who have suffered and died in the service of truth. Without the heroic efforts of editors and journalists who refuse to be silent in the face of repression, the world will never enjoy the full benefits of democracy.