EU-Buitenlandchef Ashton bezorgd over executies in Japan (en)

EUROPEAN UNION

Brussels, 26 April 2013 A

Statement by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on

the recent executions in Japan

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

"I deplore the execution in Japan of two death row inmates, Katsuji Hamasaki and Yoshihide Miyagi, on 26 April 2013. This brings the number of people executed this year in Japan under the new government to five, which is a worrying trend. While recognizing the serious nature of the crimes involved, I reiterate the longstanding policy of the European Union in opposition to capital punishment in all cases and without exception. I call again on the Japanese authorities to reflect on the continued use of capital punishment and reconsider the policy in the light of the worldwide trend towards abolition."