Intervention by the Permanent Representative of the Argentine Republic, Amb. Martín García Moritán

July 17

I would like to start by thanking all panelists and participants and stressing how important is for us to be present here today to mark the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the Rome Statute.

The International Criminal Court is the first permanent international criminal tribunal with a universal vocation whose main purpose is to bring justice to the most serious crimes with the ultimate goal of ending impunity and giving answers to the countless victims of mass atrocities around the world.

Our own national history compels us to work tirelessly against impunity at national and international level. For that reason Argentina has been an early and active supporter of the Court as we share the same core values that lay on the foundation of the Rome Statute.

Many of our nationals have put their knowledge, skills and determination at the disposal of this institution and our country has the honor of providing to the Court its first Prosecutor and its first female President, Ms. Silvia Fernández de Gurmendi.

The ICC is a fundamental tool of the international community in the fight against impunity and the promotion of human rights. Therefore we call on to all Member States to cooperate with the Court and respect the Rome Statute in its entirety.

The 21st century must finally bring answers to the victims of the most atrocious crimes in the way of justice. This is the only solid ground that would allow us to bring hope to humanity and to build a lasting peace.

I thank you.