Athens Macedonian News Agency: News in English, 17-02-02
CONTENTS
[01] Judges union asks International Association of Judges to respond
to Turkish pressures on extradition ruling
[01] Judges union asks International Association of Judges to respond
to Turkish pressures on extradition ruling
Greece's Association of Judges and Prosecutors invited the International
Association of Judges on Thursday to take action after the Turkish
government issued an angry response to the Greek courts' ruling regarding
the extradition of the eight Turkish officers.
The Supreme Court decided last month not to extradite the officers who
were accused by Turkey of participating in the failed coup attempt last
July, citing concern over human rights abuses in the neighbouring country.
The three decisions of the Supreme Court of Greece acknowledged that
a potential extradition would endanger their lives and expose them to
torture and humiliation and, with these considerations, it decided not
to extradite them, the association said.
After the decision, Turkey issued arrest warrants for the eight army
officers and accused Greek courts of "allowing impunity for criminals and
the violation of the rights of the victims, in contrast to the principles
of international law and rules."
"As it becomes apparent, the Turkish government is directly questioning
the irrevocable rulings of the Supreme Court of Greece, accuses our
country that it allows impunity for criminals and that it protects illegal
people, while it also threatens the country's international relations,"
the association said.
"We are of the opinion that with its stance, Turkey is attempting
to put unacceptable pressure on Greece's judicial system. We ask the
International Association of Judges to assess the situation as it stands
and make the appropriate announcements and interventions," it added.
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