President Omar al-Bashir arrived in Chad on Wednesday for an African summit, the first time Sudan's leader has risked arrest by travelling to a member state of the International Criminal Court.
Mr. Bashir faces charges of genocide and crimes against humanity for atrocities committed in Darfur. Because Chad is a member of the ICC, it could have Mr. Bashir arrested, but Sudan's government spokesman indicated he did not think that would happen.
“Relations between Sudan and Chad are more important, something beyond [the fact that] Chad is a member” of the ICC, said Rabie Abdel Attie. “I don't think Chad will do anything to harm the president. There is an agreement to end hostilities.”
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The Mayor of N'djamena presented Mr. Bashir with a key the city upon his arrival, indicating a warm welcome.
Human Rights Watch urged Chad to arrest Bashir.