The Prosecutor General, Martin Ngoga, has said that the good cooperation between Rwanda and the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) is essential for ensuring the smooth functioning of the trials.

He made the remarks during a joint press conference with the ICTR spokesperson, Roland Amoussouga, on the status of cooperation between Rwanda and the UN tribunal.

"Among other issues, the matter concerning the ongoing case of ICTR defence lawyer, Peter Erlinder, before the Rwandan courts was discussed,” reads part of the statement released by ICTR after the press conference.

"Ngoga assured ICTR Defence lawyers that they can continue their work in Rwanda without fear,” reads the statement.

The statement also quotes the Prosecutor General as saying that Rwanda honours its obligations under the Memorandum of Understanding between the government and the tribunal.

"Ngoga stressed that the case against Erlinder is not based on his work at the ICTR and is a specific case that does not have implications for the work of the other defence counsel,” adds the statement.

"In the opinion of the Rwandan government, the prosecution of this lawyer does not violate international law,” Ngoga added.

Peter Erlinder was arrested in Rwanda late May over charges of genocide denial, but has since been granted bail on medical grounds.

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