I would like to thank Judge Gatti Santana and Prosecutor Brammertz for their thorough report to the Security Council, and for today’s briefing. And congratulations Judge, on your appointment as President of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals.
Let me start from the outset reaffirm Norway’s strong support to the Mechanism, which diligently implements the important mandate given to it by this Council.
Norway commends the Mechanism’s activities in the reporting period. In June we concluded the fourth review of the work of the Mechanism and adopted resolution 2637. We support the priorities outlined by the President and the Prosecutor, to implement this resolution:
Firstly, to ensure an efficient, effective, and fair conclusion of the two remaining main cases. We note that the trial proceedings started this fall in the “Kabuga” case, and that the proceedings in the “Stanišić and Simatović” appeal case continue as scheduled.
And secondly, to lead the continuing transition from an operational court to a truly residual institution. We note here that the planned downsizing of staff continues.
President,
Let me recall the obligation of all States to fully adhere to the Security Council’s decisions. We therefore regret the lack of progress in the Jojić and Radeta case, and once again strongly urge Serbia to co-operate fully with the Mechanism.
The Mechanism is dependent on the cooperation of Member States in order to fulfil the mandate this Council has provided: to ensure accountability and justice for the victims. We regret that despite an earlier agreement, the Mechanism continues to face problems in the relocation of the eight persons who have been acquitted or released. We urge Niger to fully adhere to their agreement with the UN.
Norway appreciates the Office of the Prosecutor’s work, including the assistance rendered to national jurisdictions prosecuting international crimes. We thank the States that assist the Mechanism in tracking fugitives. And we urge all States to fully cooperate
President, the Council too should assume its responsibilities by examining every possible measure in order to ensure arrest and surrender of all remaining fugitives.to conclude the important work by the Mechanism.