Feb 16, 2004

Appeal of Akhmed Zakayev to Olivier Dupuis at his 27th day of hunger strike


Akhmed Zakayev, vice-premier of the Chechen government, thanks MEP Dupuis and asks to stop the hunger strike
Dear Olivier!
Your courageous action in support of the plan of peace settlement of the Russian - Chechen conflict under guarantees and with direct participation of the international forces has deeply touched us. This action is a rare, unfortunately, proof that in Europe there are politicians for whom the principles of justice, human rights and national freedoms remain a priority on the scale of human values. Until the voice of such people as you is heard in the world, the Chechens will keep the belief in humanity. We are sincerely grateful to you for this belief!

Your hunger strike proceeds since January 18 and has already led to some encouraging results. Under impression of this action, 145 deputies of the European parliament have expressed their support to the Concept of the conditioned independence which was adopted by the leadership of the Chechen Republic Ichkeria as the compromise plan for the termination of the bloodshed in Chechnya which continues for many years, for achievement of peace guaranteed by the international community in this corner of Europe. Without any exaggeration one could say that the forces seeking to stop the horrifying tragedy of the Chechen people were stirred into action to a considerable extent thanks to your efforts. We are grateful to you for these efforts!

Nevertheless, proceeding from humanity and being afraid for your health, we ask you to stop your hunger strike. You have done and, we are sure, will do in the future everything in human power on the path of humanity and justice. We need you as a reliable friend, full of forces and energy, because we and all people of good will who empathize with the tragedy of the Chechen people, will have to make every effort for the termination of the bloodshed on Caucasus.

With a sincere respect,

On behalf of the president and the government of the Chechen Republic Ichkeria,
Akhmed Zakayev,
vice-premier of the Chechen government, special representative of the president of the Chechen Republic Ichkeria.