By IANS/RIA Novosti,
Moscow: The European Union’s foreign policy chief has voiced concern over the police crackdown on protesters in Bahrain and urged the authorities to respect human rights.
“I am deeply concerned by new reports about the use of violence by the Bahraini security forces and strongly deplore the loss of lives,” Catherine Ashton said.
“I reiterate my call on all parties to exercise restraint and calm in order to avoid further casualties and violence,” she said in a statement.
Ashton called for commencement of talks between the government and opponents “without delay”.
Bahraini troops opened fire on protesters on downtown Pearl Square in Bahrain’s capital Manama Friday, killing at least three people and injuring more than 230 others.