US concerned over Bashir visit to China

The United States expressed concern Monday over Sudanese President Omar el Bashir's plans to visit China, despite his International Criminal Court indictment for alleged war crimes in Darfur.

On Sunday, the Sudanese foreign ministry said Bashir would travel to meet his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping and attend the September 3 celebrations marking Japan's defeat in World War II.

US State Department spokesman Mark Toner told reporters the United States continues to believe Bashir should not travel until he faces justice.

"As you know, he's been charged by the ICC — the International Criminal Court — with war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide," he said.

"Warrants for his arrest remain outstanding and we strongly support the ICC's efforts to hold accountable those responsible for those acts. We oppose invitations, facilitation or support for travel by persons subject to outstanding ICC warrants," Toner added

Source: MENA