17 May 2004 -- EU foreign ministers, meeting in Brussels, are preparing a statement condemning prisoner abuse in Iraq.
A draft statement, seen by RFE/RL, says the EU condemns any "instances of abuse and degradation of prisoners in Iraq," adding they are contrary to international law including the Geneva Conventions.
It says the EU welcomes the commitment by the "relevant governments" to bring to justice those responsible for the abuse.
The draft statement also condemns all violence and terrorist attacks in Iraq, "including the kidnappings and brutal murder of hostages."
Those responsible are urged to release immediately all remaining hostages. The ministers also endorse a "vital and growing" role for the UN in Iraq.
It says the EU welcomes the commitment by the "relevant governments" to bring to justice those responsible for the abuse.
The draft statement also condemns all violence and terrorist attacks in Iraq, "including the kidnappings and brutal murder of hostages."
Those responsible are urged to release immediately all remaining hostages. The ministers also endorse a "vital and growing" role for the UN in Iraq.