U.S Government Deplores Handling of Tibetan Refugees
News Release
Kathmandu, 6 June 2003: The U.S Government deplores the Government of Nepal’s deportation of 18 Tibetan Asylum seekers, including eight minors, to China. This action not only violates international norms and practices regarding the humane treatment of asylum seekers, but also tarnishes the Government of Nepal’s longstanding and well-deserved reputation for tolerance and hospitality. In the past the Government of Nepal has demonstrated its respect for the rights of asylum seekers by granting access to “persons of concern” by local representatives of the United Naitons High Commission for Refugees. We regret the unfortunate change in policy the Government of Nepal has adopted toward people who cross its borders to seek haven and assistance. The Government of the United States calls on the Government of Nepal to return to its former policy of giving UNHCR access to ” person of concern” and allowing refugees from Tibet to transit Nepal.
American Centre, Embassy of the United States
Gyaneshwor, Kathmandu. Tel. 4415-845
Date: June 2, 2003