URUGUAYAN FOREIGN MINISTER REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR CICIG

Guatemala, March 14, 2013. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uruguay, Luis Almagro Lemes, reaffirmed the Uruguayan Government's support for the work of the International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG) during a courtesy visit he paid to the Commission's headquarters today.

In his speech, Minister Almagro Lemes encouraged all CICIG officials to continue working to achieve justice. The minister emphasized: "The fight against impunity is key in strengthening the rule of law in a country. Therefore, allow me to acknowledge the courage you have shown and the efforts undertaken despite commonly being subject to different pressures and threats."

Aníbal Gutiérrez, CICIG Political Advisor, thanked the minister for the political support and human capital provided by the Government of Uruguay to CICIG. The support has been crucial in permitting CICIG to conduct its activities to fight impunity in Guatemala.

"Your government has maintained a permanent security contingent [at CICIG] since 2008, therefore, allow us to express our gratitude for these years of support provided to the Commission, where we are committed to working to achieve justice and to strengthen the rule of law," added Gutiérrez.

Gutiérrez presented the CICIG work plan, including the achievements and challenges for 2015, at which time the Commission's mandate will come to an end. The minister was accompanied by Raúl Pollak Giampietro, Ambassador of Uruguay to Guatemala, and other officials from the Embassy.