ICC Registrar Herman von Hebel, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship of Argentina Susana Mabel Malcorra, ICC President Judge Silvia Fernández de Gurmendi and ICC Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda ©ICC-CPI
On 20 February 2017, Ms Susana Mabel Malcorra, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship of the Argentine Republic, visited the International Criminal Court (ICC) to meet with the President of the Court, Judge Silvia Fernández de Gurmendi, the Prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda, and the Registrar, Herman von Hebel.
The President of the ICC thanked Foreign Minister Malcorra for Argentina’s strong support of the Court, as evidenced among other things by the conclusion of a cooperation agreement last November relating to the protection of witnesses.
The President briefed the Minister on the Court’s current work, including achievements and continued efforts to enhance the Court’s efficiency, both in terms of judicial proceedings as well as administration. Various challenges were also discussed, particularly the importance of promoting universal ratification of the Rome Statute.
“The strong commitment of States Parties is essential for the success of the Court and I look forward to Argentina’s continued active role in this respect”, said President Fernández.
Minister Malcorra expressed that “the Rome Statute and the International Criminal Court are one of the most notable achievements of multilateral diplomacy.” She added that “Argentina acknowledges the ICC as cornerstone of a universal system in order to fight impunity and protect the victims of the most serious crimes of international concern. Therefore, my Government is increasing the cooperation with the institution and will intensify its support.”
