Minister for Europe expresses concern over violence in Kazakhstan
Minister for Europe David Lidington has expressed concern over violence and urges calm and restraint from all sides following reports of further violence near Shetpe in Kazakhstan.
Speaking today he said:
“I was very concerned to hear about the clashes in the city of Zhanaozen in western Kazakhstan. My sympathy and thoughts are with the victims and their families. I welcome the Kazakhstani government’s initiative to set up a commission to investigate this event, led by Deputy Prime Minister Shukeev; a prompt, full and open investigation into these events is the best way forward. The reports of further violence near the village of Shetpe in the same region are worrying and I urge calm and restraint on all sides. I also welcome the intention of the Kazakhstani authorities to engage with local representatives. I hope that renewed dialogue will help to resolve, in a peaceful manner, the broader socio-economic grievances.”