Statement by the Spanish Minister for Foreign Affairs and Co-operation, Miguel Ángel Moratinos, Chairman-in-Office of the Committee of Ministers, concerning the abolition of the death penalty in New Mexico

I welcome the recent decision of the authorities in New Mexico to abolish the death penalty, thus brining to fifteen the number of states having taken this measure in the United States. The increasing awareness of the inhuman character of this punishment all over the world and of its uselessness gives great cause for satisfaction. This increasing awareness is particularly clear from the statements made by Governor Bill Richardson at the moment of the signature of the instrument abolishing the death penalty in his state. The Governor has equally signalled that as regards this issue the United States should align its position with that of the majority of states. I sincerely hope that the example given by New Mexico will quickly be followed by others. The Spanish Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers will continue its efforts for the universal abolition of the death penalty.