"As a steadfast partner in the struggle against the brutal excesses of his regime, Canada is, indeed, pleased to learn that Slobodan Milosevic – the author of so much of the misfortune that has plagued the Balkans – has at last been apprehended.

This is an important first step in bringing Milosevic to justice for his regime’s actions. It demonstrates the commitment of President Kostunica and other democratic leaders to the rule of law and the seriousness with which they view holding the Milosevic regime to account for its crimes.

At the same time, the authorities in Belgrade have an obligation to cooperate fully with the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia, including the handing over of Milosevic. In the interest of justice, and as a decisive step in the improvement of Yugoslavia’s international standing, we hope that this takes place soon."