Ratko Mladic’s health is a major concern for the war crimes tribunal in The Hague, said its clerk, John Hocking, at today's joint press conference with chief prosecutor Serge Brammertz.

“He is receiving the best possible medical care,” said Mr Hocking. Mladic is also having regular medical check-ups which are mandatory for all suspects.

The former general’s health has been a subject of much discussion. He appeared frail upon arrest and was reportedly treated for cancer in Belgrade in 2009.

There is no reason to fear that Mladic will commit suicide, Mr Hocking said in response to a journalist’s question.

The International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia’s clerk has spoken with Mladic, who, said Mr Hocking, is very co-operative. “We understand each other,” he added.

(jn)

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