France is concerned by the increased violence in various locations in recent days. The use of violence, whatever its origin, cannot be a solution, and must be rejected by all parties.

In this respect, we condemn the attack perpetrated against police officers on April 9 in the village of Aker, which left seven of them seriously injured. Full light must be shed on the circumstances of this attack.

We also call on the Bahraini authorities to forbid the use of excessive force and in particular to avoid any inappropriate use of teargas against demonstrators.

Avenues for political dialogue that will bring all parties together must be explored in order to restore calm and promote reconciliation on a lasting basis.