Statement by the spokesperson of EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on the capture of Saif al-Islam

BRUSSELS, Kingdom of Belgium, November 21, 2011/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

"The reported capture of Saif al-Islam is a significant development. As Colonel Gaddafi's son and possible successor, Saif was a key player in the former regime. He also faces serious

charges including allegations of crimes against humanity committed during the Libyan revolution.

It is of utmost importance that Saif al-Islam's safety is now ensured and his due process rights

guaranteed so that he can be delivered to justice, in accordance with Libya's international

obligations and the National Transitional Council's public commitments to respect the rule of law.

In that context, continuing cooperation with the International Criminal Court should be assured.

Libya has now launched a process of democratic transition following a painful and bloody conflict and nearly 42 years of dictatorship. It is essential for national reconciliation and Libya's future stability that those responsible for human rights violations committed both before and during the recent conflict are brought to justice and that the facts surrounding such violations are brought to light."