War crimes trial to be fair
Hopes US envoy
US Ambassador-at-Large for War Crimes Issues, Stephen J Rapp, yesterday expressed satisfaction at the progress of the war crimes trial process in Bangladesh.
He is also hopeful that the trial would be a fair one and live up to international standard.
Rapp said this as he called on Foreign Minister Dipu Moni yesterday and discussed issues of bilateral interest including the issue of war crimes trial that topped the agenda.
Dipu Moni, according to a press release, said that Rapp termed his meetings with the judges, prosecutors, and investigators of the International Crimes Tribunal very fruitful.
During the discussion with the foreign minister, he emphasised, among others, the importance of the protection of the victims and the witnesses.
Acknowledging that each country's experiences are unique and varied, the US envoy suggested benefiting from the international experiences of trials for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Rapp also indicated at the possible assistance in terms of expertise and financial support from the US side which can help the trial process run efficiently. He mentioned that the US is deeply interested in the process of war crimes trial in Bangladesh.
The foreign minister said the government would appreciate receiving support from the international community including the US to ensure the highest standard of trial process.
She also reiterated the government's firm commitment to a fair and impartial trial of the war crimes, maintaining global standard.
This is second visit by Ambassador Rapp to Bangladesh to discuss the issue of war crimes trial. He earlier visited Bangladesh in January.
Rapp, then, held meetings with the foreign and law ministers, judges, prosecutors, and investigators of the International Crimes Tribunal, Bangladesh, and the defence counsels.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments