Brussels, 19/04/2013 (Agence Europe) - The spokesman who was speaking on Thursday 18 April on behalf of EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton said that the trial of the former Guatemalan dictator, Efrain Rios Montt, for the massacre of nearly 2,000 Indians during the civil war was “drawing to a close”. He said that “the conclusion of this trial should mark an important step in healing the wounds of the past”. Since the publication of the press release, the trial has been cancelled for procedural flaws. A new trial is expected to be held but, so far, no date has been announced.
In the press release, Ashton's spokesman encourages all parties to “engage constructively in promoting dialogue and reconciliation”, and further reiterates that “the consolidation of the rule of law and the protection of human rights are crucial elements for Guatemala's democratic, social and economic development”. He went on to add that independent, impartial and fair trials “constitute the cornerstone of any justice system”. Ashton welcomes progress made in the creation of state institutions. (CG/transl.jl)