Statement Attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General

1 Dec 2008

Statement Attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General

Paris, 14 July 2008 -- The Secretary-General was informed that the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court has asked the Court to issue an arrest warrant for the President of Sudan.

The Secretary-General emphasizes that the Court is an independent institution and that the United Nations must respect the independence of the judicial process. The United Nations peacekeeping operations in Sudan will continue to conduct their important work in an impartial manner, cooperating in good faith with all partners so as to further the goal of peace and stability in the country. The United Nations will also continue its vital humanitarian and development work there.

The Secretary-General expects that the Government of Sudan will continue to cooperate fully with the United Nations in Sudan, while fulfilling its obligation to ensure the safety and security of all United Nations personnel and property.