Oct. 28, 1996

Statement by Justice Abdul Razzak A. Thahim

Mr. Chairman,

[...] We appreciate the energetic efforts of the Chairman of the Preparatory Committee and other members of the Bureau who steered the work of the PREPCOM efficiently. We fully subscribe to the objective of resolving the out standing issues, preparing the draft and then moving to the convening of a diplomatic conference.

Mr. Chairman,

We noted during the PREPCOM a very useful briefing given by the Prosecutor of the International Tribunal on the Former Republic of Yugoslavia. We understand from him that the success of the Court will depend on the cooperation of the Member States. The International Criminal Court will create new obligations for the Member States. Unless the cooperation of the State was available, the purpose of establishing a Court will not be served.

It is, therefore, necessary that the work of the preparatory Committee should move forward with a clear objective of taking board different concerns voiced by the Member States belonging to divergent legal system.

[...]

Mr. Chairman,

We are looking forward to the next meeting of the PREPCOM in the run up to the diplomatic conference and will continue to constructively contribute to its proceedings.