Monday, December 7, 2015

STL hosts French Minister of Justice

Leidschendam, 7 December 2015 - The French Minister of Justice Christiane Taubira paid a courtesy visit to the Special Tribunal for Lebanon today, as part of her one-day visit to the Netherlands that included discussions with Dutch officials.
She was accompanied by the French Ambassador to the Netherlands, Laurent Pic, and a delegation from the Ministry of Justice.
STL President Judge Ivana Hrdličková, Prosecutor Norman Farrell, the Head of the Defence Office François Roux, and Deputy Registrar Amelie Zinzius, welcomed the Minister and her delegation.
During her visit, the Minister focused on the applicable law at the STL, the use of French as an official Tribunal language, and the benefits of the STL for the Lebanese people.
On behalf of the STL, Judge Hrdličková expressed her "deep gratitude to Minister of Justice Taubira for France's continued support". The President further highlighted "the benefits to the international community of the STL's experience, incorporating the best practices of diverse legal traditions to ensure the highest standards of criminal justice".
The Minister and the delegation toured the courtroom and were greeted by the STL staff members at the end of the visit.