DPA
June 26, 2008

Washington -- The United States called on the Nepalese government to
release three Tibetan activists jailed earlier this month following
demonstrations against Chinese rule. "The United States is deeply
concerned by the Government of Nepal's recent detention without
charge of Tibetan community activists," US State Department deputy
spokesman Tom Casey said Thursday.

Casey also criticized Nepalese authorities for "the ongoing harsh
treatment of peaceful protesters" in breaking up rallies against
China's control over Tibet.

"We urge Nepal to ensure the humane treatment of peaceful protesters
and to adhere to its international human rights obligations," he said.

Nepal said it arrested three leading activists Kelsang Chung, Ngawang
Sangmo, and Tashi Dolma on Friday, based on a national security law
that allows authorities to hold individuals for 90 days without charges.

Nepal sides with China in the long running dispute over Tibet.