This written declaration commits only those who have signed it.
We, the undersigned, declare the following:
In recent years, the People’s Republic of China has become
more present and influential in Europe, increasing its efforts to
strengthen bilateral relations with Council of Europe member States.
Since 2016 Italy and the People´s Republic of China maintain
an exchange program that includes the stationing and deployment
of Chinese police officers in Italy. Similar programs exist in other
Council of Europe member States like Serbia and Croatia. Accordingly,
Chinese police officers are patrolling the streets of selected European
cities.
Whereas international co-operation and dialogue in the field
of law enforcement should be welcomed by the Council of Europe and
its member States, a co-operation that includes police presence
in public areas should be reconsidered by member States when dealing
with a country disrespecting human rights, the rule of law and democratic
values.
