The alleged abduction and illegal arbitrary detention of Azerbaijani nationals, including human rights defenders, residing in Georgia followed by their arrest and prosecution in Azerbaijan, demands swift, thorough and transparent investigation. 

We welcome the launch of such an investigation in Georgia as announced by its leadership.

A review by Azerbaijan of any and all cases of incarceration related to the exercise of fundamental rights, including the freedom of expression, and immediate release all of those concerned is urgent, in line with Azerbaijan’s international commitments. 

We expect that the due process of law is respected, as well as the civil and political rights of citizens and those residing legally in states other than their own. 

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights clearly states that “No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile”. 

The European Union will continue to follow these cases closely.

Federica Mogherini, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, met today with Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu in the margins of the Conference of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). They exchanged views on bilateral relations, the Middle East peace process and regional issues.

One day before the 50th anniversary of the beginning of the 6-day war, the High Representative reiterated her call for an end of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. A concerted international effort led by the Quartet and working with partners in the region, offer good opportunities to focus on the preservation of the two-state solution as the only viable way of achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.

In this context, High Representative Mogherini discussed with Prime Minister Netanyahu how concrete progress can be reached. She also reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to work together with both Israel and Palestinians to this end, as well as key regional and international players, the Middle East peace process remaining a top priority for the EU’s foreign policy and Europeans.

I watched the events unfold in London last night in horror.

The cowardly people who committed these attacks will not undermine our resilience, our compassion or our democracies.

I know that the people of London will carry on defiantly, just like the people of Manchester showed us such a short time ago. The European Union, its Member States and its allies around the world will stand with them in solidarity. Together we will continue to uphold the values that make us peaceful, democratic, open and tolerant societies.

My thoughts now are with the victims and their families.

We have now launched our manifesto for the General Election on 8 June. It sets out how we will ensure that there is strong opposition to a re-elected and increasingly hard line Tory government at Westminster.

Our thriving creative sector has a reputation for excellence: from the many artists based here, to our Festivals, our National Performing Companies and National Collections, our rich built heritage and our world-leading digital technologies. We value the many, vibrant, contributions they make to Scotland and to our international reputation. 

Here’s how SNP MPs will be strong voices for Scotland’s creative sector at Westminster.