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The Dutch human rights ambassador, Arjan Hamburger, will be visiting Sudan in October to discuss specific measures to improve the human rights situation in that country.
Verhagen and Sudanese counterpart Deng AlorThis trip was agreed on following a meeting between Minister of Foreign Affairs Maxime Verhagen and his Sudanese counterpart Deng Alor in The Hague. 'I remain greatly concerned about human rights in Sudan, especially the tragic situation in Darfur,' said Mr Verhagen. 'The Sudanese government needs to ensure that humanitarian aid workers are given free access to people in need.'
Mr Verhagen urged his Sudanese colleague to cooperate fully with the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. The ICC, which is investigating crimes against humanity in Sudan, has issued arrest warrants against a minister and a government-backed militia leader. The chief prosecutor recently asked the judges of the Court to bring an indictment against President Bashir as well.
'The work of the International Criminal Court contributes to more stability and security in the world over the long term,' said Mr Verhagen. 'Justice is indispensable to a lasting peace, in Sudan and elsewhere. War crimes must be investigated and the perpetrators punished. This is non-negotiable.'
The Sudanese foreign minister Deng Alor is in the Netherlands for a two-day visit. In addition to his meeting with Mr Verhagen, he will be speaking with members of the House of Representatives.
Ministerie van Buitenlandse Zaken
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