Five states affirm commitment to justice in Malaysian plane crash

KUALA LUMPRUR, July 17 (KUNA) -- Five states involved in investigating the 2014 deadly crash of the Malaysian passenger plane (MH17) have affirmed continuous cooperation to serve justice and determine circumstances of the tragic incident.
Malaysian Foreign Ministry, in a statement released today (Saturday) marking the seventh anniversary of the ill-fated aircraft crash, said that its foreign minister along with fellow ministers of Australia, Belgium, the Netherlands and the Ukraine, expressed utter confidence in the "independent, open and neutral" investigations, stressing their unwavering commitment to continue efforts for serving justice and bringing the culprits into account.
The Malaysian Foreign Ministry publicized a joint statement representing all these countries, starting, "We, the Foreign Ministers of Australia, Belgium, Malaysia, the Netherlands, and Ukraine, whose countries comprise the Joint Investigation Team, today mark the seventh anniversary of the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, resulting in the tragic death of 298 passengers and crew members.
"Our thoughts remain with those who perished on board, their families and loved ones. While nothing can bring back those who lost their lives, or diminish the anguish and grief suffered by the family members, it is imperative that we remain steadfast in our commitment to pursuing truth, justice and accountability.
"We acknowledge the cooperation of our respective investigative agencies and reiterate our full support for their efforts to establish the truth of what happened. We also have full confidence in the independent, open and impartial criminal proceedings against the alleged perpetrators. We reiterate our deepest sympathies and condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims of the downing of Flight MH17." A Dutch court declared in June that parts of a Russian made surface-to-air missile, Buk type, has been found at the crash scene. However, Russia has denied any responsibility for the fatal incident.
Three Russians and a Ukrainian have been charged with downing the plane. The Netherlands is prosecuting the accused persons in absentia. Bulk of the victims were from this country.
There were 80 children on board of the MH17 plane, which was shot down over a combat zone in eastern Ukraine. It was flying from Amsterdam to the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur. (end) aib.rk