March 2, 2010 - Naharnet - Cassese Submits 1st Tribunal Annual Report to UN, Lebanon Government

President of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon Antonio Cassese has submitted the first Tribunal's Annual Report to both U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the Lebanese government. The report aims to illustrate the steps taken, the achievements made a well as the hurdles encountered during the STL's first year (March 2009-February 2010), a statement by the STL said. It said the report will be made public in due course."The aims of the Tribunal are to render justice, to provide truth and peace of mind for the victims as well as to contribute to reconciliation within Lebanese society," Cassese said on the occasion of the first STL anniversary."The Tribunal further intends to strengthen the culture of accountability. We aim at dispensing justice impartially, fairly and free from any political or ideological bias, in full respect for the rights of defendants and victims." Cassese stressed that the STL is aware of the challenges it has to face. "But the Tribunal," he added, "is prepared to meet these challenges and successfully complete its mandate."