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France condemns prisoner executions in Iraq

PARIS, Oct 5 (KUNA) -- France on Friday condemned Iraq for carrying out six executions on Thursday and reiterated concern over the growing use of capital punishment in that country.
"This brings to 102 the number of prisoners executed in Iraq since the beginning of the year," said Foreign Ministry spokesman Philippe Lalliot.
"We have already had the opportunity to express our worry relative to the growing use of capital punishment in Iraq," the official added.
France this month will launch an official campaign for the abolition of capital punishment worldwide and "recalls its firm and constant opposition to the use of the death penalty in all places and circumstances," Lalliot indicated.
The French government will call for all countries using capital punishment to end this practice, or at least adopt a moratorium pending a later decision on the issue.
The French authorities last month condemned Japan for ending a moratorium on executions when two people were put to death in that country. (end) jk.sd KUNA 051724 Oct 12NNNN