The Union contributes to the preservation and to the devel- opment of these common values while respecting the diversity of the cultures and traditions of the peoples of Europe as well as the national identities of the Member States. [...] However, dis- sonance in theory and inconsistencies in practice can be seen in the application of the Charter to the foreign policy and diplomacy of the EU (both as a whole and by individual Member States) with respect to ethnic and religious minorities. [...] Study of the Kurds leads the report to affirm the foundational value of ‘enculturated’ engagement with minorities and the importance of informed analysis of their ethnic priorities, political aspirations and religious sensibilities, both in situ and in diaspora communities in Europe and elsewhere. [...] What practical steps should the EU take to safeguard the interests of Member States while enhancing engagement with cultural, reli- gious and ethnic minorities? More than this, the authors of this report believe the internal-external dialogue introduced here is foundational for global harmony and the safety and security of the EU and Western Alliance in the second half of the 21st century. [...] With easier access to Russia in the west and stronger rail and trade access with the rest of China to the east, the Dzungarian Basin has seen significant industrial and commercial development over the last half century, in and around the provincial capital of Urumqi, oil, coal, iron, and gold have all drawn in immigrants, investors and gangsters.
- Pages
- 110
- Published in
- Netherlands
