French govt. calls for release of Eritrean Patriarch

(Republic of France) - France is deeply concerned by the continued house arrest – which has now lasted 10 years - of His Holiness Abune Antonios, Patriarch of the Eritrean Orthodox Church.

We deplore the fact that in addition the 89-year-old does not have access to the medical care he needs.

We call for his release.

This situation reflects the Eritrean authorities’ serious and persistent violation of the freedom of religion or belief and fundamental freedoms.

France reaffirms its attachment to the freedom of religion or belief, as well as the freedom of opinion and expression. It calls on the Eritrean authorities to take all necessary steps to comply with the international commitments to which they have freely subscribed.