February 3, 2010 - Daily Star - Top STL officials, Berri discuss tribunal challenges

BEIRUT: President of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) Antonio Cassese and Vice President Ralph Riachy discussed with Speaker Nabih Berri the challenges that international criminal tribunals face. Cassese assured Berri the Tribunal is committed to accomplishing its mission while being completely independent and impartial, an STL statement said.
Cassese and Riachy also met Judge Ghaleb Ghanem, president of the Higher Judicial Council and Public Prosecutor Saeed Mirza. During their talks, they discussed ways for cooperation between the Tribunal and Lebanese authorities. Cassese also expressed his thanks for the support from the Judiciary.
In the afternoon Cassese and Riachy took part in an “experts roundtable” held at the Phoenicia Hotel. The roundtable, which included envoys from the legal, academic and civil society, was an open discussion about the legal framework and activities of the STL and lessons learned from other international tribunals. Cassese stressed that he also saw this meeting as an chance for the STL to benefit from the participants’ extensive experience in Lebanese and international law. Cassese highlighted the importance of a well-informed debate about the STL, its mandate, and its rules.
The STL press office said Cassese and Riachy’s official visit would continue with a courtesy call to the Lebanese University and a presentation to the Beirut Bar Association.
On Tuesday, Al-Mustaqbal newspaper said Cassese’s visit to Beirut was intended to stress that the STL was ready for an open trial as soon as Prosecutor General Daniel Bellemare issues his charge sheet against those involved in the assassination of former Premier Rafik Hariri and related crimes.
Meanwhile, As-Safir newspaper said Cassese discussed with Lebanese officials the issue of appointing a liaison judge to serve as a link between the STL in The Hague and Lebanese authorities. Cassese is likely to appoint a Lebanese judge for the post, it added.