Brussels, 27 March . -(ANA) - The European Union (EU) foreign affairs chief Catherine Ashton has expressed her concern at the death sentences passed against 529 Muslim Brotherhood supporters by a court in Minya in southern Egypt.
 
"Notwithstanding the serious nature of the crimes for which they were convicted, capital punishment can never be justified,” said Ashton in a statement issued today, reminding that the EU opposes capital punishment under all circumstances.
 
The High Representative reiterated the EU's call on the Egyptian interim authorities to ensure, in line with international standards, the defendants' rights to a fair and timely trial based on clear charges and proper and independent investigations, as well as the right of access and contact to lawyers and family members. -(ANA)

AB/ANA/27 march 2014 - - -