India, EU condemn suppression of civic rights

New Delhi, Nov 30 (UNI) India today expressed concern at the government action against ethnic Indians in Malaysia while the European Union (EU) condemned suppression of civil rights.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, addressing a press conference along with his Portuguese counterpart Jose Socrates, said he was concerned at the plight of Indian Nationals and the People of Indian Origin (PIOs) anywhere including in Malaysia.

''This is a matter which has concerned us. Whenever Indians or People of Indian Origin abroad are harmed, it is a matter of concern for us,'' Dr Singh said.

The two Prime Ministers, who were addressing a joint press conference after the Eighth India-EU Summit, were asked for their comments at the use of force by Malaysian authorities against ethnic Indians in that country.

Dr Singh did not elaborate saying Parliament was in session and External Affairs Minister Prnab Mukherjee would be making a statement on the issue in the House.

The Portuguese Prime Minister, currently holding Presidency of the EU, said the 27-member EU had a common position that supported civil rights anywhere and condemned the suppression of those rights.

''We always support civil rights and condemn the suppression of civil rights,'' Mr Socrates said.

UNI