The Celtic League has condemned economic ties between the Isle of Man and the regime in Bahrain as shameful (see below).
The Isle of Man government recently trumpeted bilateral economic ties between the two countries.
The Celtic League point out the Gulf States appalling human rights record was well known before the recent crackdown on peaceful protest during which people have been killed, injured or `disappeared’.
“The Treasury Minister: Mrs Anne Craine, MHK
Isle of Man treasury
Government Buildings
Douglas
Isle of Man
18/02/11
Dear Minister,
Ref: Bahrain – Isle of Man Bilateral Links
I note the recent statement from the Isle of Man Treasury relating to developing bilateral economic links with the regime in Bahrain.
As you will have seen over the past few days the government (if it can called that) of Bahrain is a despotic regime which has allowed its troops and police to fire on peaceful protesters killing some and injuring many. In addition a substantial number of its citizens have `disappeared’ during the course of the protests.
The regime in Bahrain was well known for its abuse of human rights and fundamental freedoms and has been criticised over recent years by both NGOs and National Governments. Even the United States which utilises facilities in the country has been critical of its human rights record.
Is a regime of this nature the type of government with which the Isle of Man (to use your words) wishes to “facilitate the development of business and investment opportunities” with?
Linkage (even at economic level) with such a malevolent regime is shameful and deeply insulting to the many innocent citizens of Bahrain who have killed and injured.
Yours sincerely
J B Moffatt (Mr)
Director of Information”
Related link on Celtic News here:
https://groups.yahoo.com/group/celtic_league/message/3590
Additional related link here:
https://www.gov.im/lib/news/cso/isleofmansignsdo.xml
J B Moffatt (Mr)
Director of Information
Celtic League
18/02/11