The UAE’s minister of state for foreign affairs, Dr Anwar Mohammed Gargash has expressed disappointment in this week’s European Union resolution concerning the human rights situation in the UAE.

The European Parliament responded to a motion put by the UK member Dr Charles Tannock concerning the treatment of political detainees; freedom of expression.

The resolution acknowledges that jurisdiction does not lie at federal level in many cases, but nonetheless “expresses severe concerns for the well being of approximately 62 political detainees arrested this year, whose whereabouts are unknown to the international community”.

It seeks to remind the UAE that they are entitled to a fair trial and due process.

Further, it calls on the UAE “to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the freedom of expression and association as provided for under the Constitution of the UAE.”