EU commissioner on external relations Benita Ferrero-Waldner expressed her opposition to death penalty against former Iraqi president Saddam Hussein.

"The passing of Saddam Hussein closes a long, painful chapter in the history of Iraq. While the EU opposes capital punishment as a matter of principle, Saddam's trial and punishment mean that those who commit crimes against humanity cannot escape justice," she said in a written statement.

The commissioner made the comment in a written statement in response to the execution of former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein, who was hanged earlier on Saturday.

Waldner noted that Saddam Hussein's career and legacy show the "futility of the politics of violence and terror," adding that she hope that all Iraqi leaders will now find the wisdom and courage to join forces to end the violence and to build a future of stability and prosperity for their country and people.

"The European Commission will continue to give active and substantial support to those who work for reconciliation and progress in Iraq," she added.

Source: Xinhua