Statement by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on the execution of Edgar Tamayo Arias

EU News 25/2014

Brussels, 23 January 2014
140123/01

The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

"It was with deep regret that I learnt that Mr Edgar Tamayo Arias was executed in the State of Texas on 22 January 2014. Although Mr Tamayo was a Mexican citizen, the Texas authorities failed to notify him of his right to contact a Mexican consulate at the time of his arrest, as required by the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. The execution of Mr Tamayo Arias, before receiving the remedy to which he was entitled, is a breach of an undisputed international obligation.

I recognise the serious nature of the crime involved and express my sincere sympathy to the family and friends of the victim. However, the European Union is opposed to the use of capital punishment in all cases and under any circumstances. The death penalty is cruel, inhumane and irreversible, and its abolition essential to protect human dignity."

Source and additional information:
http://eeas.europa.eu/statements/docs/2014/140123_01_en.pdf

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