MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on European sanctions against Cambodia

B9‑0089/2021

Motion for a resolution of the European Parliament on European sanctions against Cambodia

The European Parliament,

– having regard to the entry into force of the EU-Vietnam agreement on 1 August 2020,

– having regard to the trade sanctions imposed on Cambodia with effect from 12 August 2020,

– having regard to Rule 143 of its Rules of Procedure,

A. whereas Cambodia and Vietnam have a difficult relationship as neighbours;

B. whereas Vietnam benefits extensively from the agreement with the European Union, as the trade balance between Vietnam and the Member States of the Union is very much in its favour;

C. whereas serious violations of religious freedom have been committed in Vietnam[1];

D. whereas improving working conditions is just as desirable in Vietnam as in Cambodia[2][3];

1. Maintains that this double-standards policy seriously undermines the credibility of the Member States of the European Union, particularly with regard to foreign and trade policy;

2. Calls for the lifting of sanctions on Cambodia, which are unproductive and unfair in comparison with the agreement signed by the European Union with Vietnam;

3. Recalls that sanctions regularly prove ineffective and complicate the diplomatic relationships of the Member States with third countries.