EN E-005249/2015 Answer given by Ms Malmström on behalf of the Commission (14.7.2015) In its 2010 Communication "towards a comprehensive EU international investment policy, the Commission" acknowledged that "A common investment policy should also be guided by the principles and objectives of the Union's external action more generally, including the promotion of the rule of law, human rights and sustainable development." The on-going negotiation for an investment agreement between the EU and China is only one aspect of the EU's relationship with China and it is not the appropriate vehicle for dealing with the situation described in the question. The scope of an investment agreement is very specific and rather limited. The main purpose of such an agreement is to protect investors against discrimination, ensure fair and equitable treatment and ensure that investors will not be expropriated without fair compensation. Concerning other issues, investment agreements can, at most, complement the efforts and initiatives undertaken in other fora or through other instruments. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the EU-China Human Rights Dialogue with China, where the human rights situation in Tibet is systematically raised with the Chinese authorities. The situation in Tibet was also raised by HR/VP Mogherini during the Strategic dialogue, which took place in Beijing on 5th May. Last but not least, a reference to the human rights situation in Tibet is always included in the EU statements during the regular sessions of the Human Rights Council.