Amnesty International reminded Velcom buyers of human rights in Belarus

• 5.10.2007, 9:38

Director of the Austrian Amnesty International section Heinz Patzelt reminded Telekom Austria Group of the situation with the human rights in Belarus. This statement of the Austrian human rights activist was made in the context of buying by Telekom Austria Group 70 percent of Belarusian mobile operator assets.

In the interview to Austrian service broadcaster ORF Mr. Patzelt stressed that there are some things in Belarus which the European businessmen should pay their attention to. For example the fact that last year Belarus had 151 points in worldwide press freedom ranking published by Reporters Without Borders.

According to Heinz Patzelt, the broadening of trade contacts brings profit to the Austrian businessmen, but it is also important to think of the interests of the population of such countries as Belarus. In his opinion if it is impossible to prevent humiliating actions against the human rights, one need at least to inform the clients about such facts, Radio Svaboda reported.