The European Union (EU) on Monday expressed its concern at the civil disturbances in the Solomon Islands and welcomed the assistance given by its neighbors.

"Attacks on law enforcement personnel, civil unrest and the destruction of property risk undoing the recent progress in the Solomon Islands for which its people have worked hard," said Austria, which holds the EU presidency, in a statement.

It reaffirmed its support for the work of the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands to help build sustainable peace, foster economic growth and promote good governance in the country.

Political protests over the controversial election of new Prime Minister Snyder Rini triggered riots in the Solomon Islands capital of Honiara last week.

Source: Xinhua