Hoge Vertegenwoordiger Ashton tevreden met uitlevering Congolese rebellenleider Ntaganda aan Internationaal Strafhof (en)

EUROPEAN UNION

Brussels, 22 March 2013 A

Statement by the spokesperson of EU High Representative Catherine Ashton i on the transfer of Bosco Ntaganda to the Hague

The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

"The High Representative welcomes the transfer to The Hague of Mr Bosco Ntaganda, following two international arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court. She thanks all those who made this possible. This transfer is consistent with the commitments taken in the peace, security and development framework for the DRC and the region, which the EU supports.

Mr. Ntaganda is accused of perpetrating war crimes and crimes against humanity in eastern Congo, including the use of rape, sexual slavery and recruitment of child soldiers. Mr Ntaganda's transfer to the ICC in preparation for a fair and credible trial at the Court sends a strong message to others accused of atrocities that they too will face justice one day.

The European Union reiterates its support for the International Criminal Court in its struggle against impunity andfor the promotion of a law-based international order. The EU believes that human rights violations must be pursued, whoever is responsible.

The EU remains committed to supporting the efforts to achieve stabilisation, reconciliation and justice in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as the actions taken to uphold the rule of law."