The European Union has followed with considerable concern the recent impeachment process against Chief Justice Shirani Bandaranayake of Sri Lanka, EU High Representative Catherine Ashton said.

"The separation of powers is inherent in any democracy which respects the rule of law. It follows that the independence of the judicial branch cannot be made subject to actions by any other branch of government," commented Ashton She called on Sri Lanka to ensure that its international obligations, and in particular the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, are implemented.

The EU foreign policy chief also urged the Sri Lankan government "to respect the right to peaceful protest and to ensure the safety both of Dr. Shirani Bandaranayake and of all human rights defenders."