Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton today said the arrest of Goran Hadzic closes a horrific chapter in the Serbia’s history.
Ms. Clinton stressed that the United States welcomes the arrest of Goran Hadzic by Serbian authorities.
“We commend President Tadic, the Serbian security services, and all others who worked to finally bring Hadzic to justice. We look forward to his earliest possible transfer to the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) in The Hague so that justice may be served.” -Ms. Clinton
Ms. Clinton highlighted that the arrest of Hadzic helps demonstrate Serbia’s commitment to reconciliation and to the rule of law – critical elements for progress toward accession to the European Union.
“A powerful message has been sent to those around the world who would break the law and target civilians: you will not escape judgment. None of the 161 individuals indicted by the ICTY for serious violations of international humanitarian law have been able to evade the Tribunal’s judicial process.” -Ms. Clinton
She added that the arrest serves as the latest proof that international justice works.
“We send our deepest sympathies and extend our thoughts and prayers to all those who have suffered from the atrocities charged to Hadzic.” -Ms. Clinton
Ms. Clinton hoped that the arrest will be an impetus for lasting peace and reconciliation, resulting in a stable and prosperous future for the entire region.
The International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia has indicted Hadzic for war crimes in 2004. He is currently facing 14 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity for his alleged involvement in the forced removal and murder of from the Republic of Croatia between 1991 and 1993.
