European Political Cooperation in 1989-1990 II. Territorial Sovereignty On several occasions, the Community and its Member States have reiterated the importance they give to the principle of territorial sovereignty of states. This was inter alia the case in statements concerning Lebanon,10 Kampuchea,11 Central America,12 and of course Kuwait.13 The Ministers of Foreign Affairs also condemned the Iranian incitement to murder novelist Salmun Rushdie in the following terms: The Foreign Ministers view these threats with the gravest concern. They condemn this incitement to murder as an unacceptable violation of the most elementary principles and obligations that govern relations among sovereign States. They underline that such behaviour is contrary to the Charter of the United Nations. They believe that fundamental principles are at stake. They reaffirm that the Twelve have the fullest respect for the religious feelings of all peoples. They remain fully committed to the principles of freedom of thought and expression within their territories. They will ensure protection of the life and properties of their citizens. In no case will they accept attempts to violate these basic rights.14 Following this statement, the Member States of the European Community recalled their Heads of Mission in Teheran for consultation and suspended high-level contacts with Iranian authorities. 10 Declaration adopted by the Strasbourg European Council, 8-9 December 1989, Doc. 89/316. 11 Doc. 90/322, 18 September 1990. 12 Statement adopted at the fifth ministerial conference between the countries of Central America, the European Community and its Member States and the countries of the Contadora group, held in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, on 27-28 February 1989, Doc. 89/073. 13 Declaration of 10 August 1990, Doc. 90/307. 14 Doc. 89/068, 20 February 1989.
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