A frame grab from Biladi shows former Iraqi president Saddam Hussein's body after his execution in Baghdad Dec. 30, 2006. Hussein was hanged for crimes against humanity at dawn on Saturday, a dramatic, violent end for a leader who ruled Iraq by fear for three decades before he was toppled by a U.S. invasion four years ago.(Xinhua/Reuters Photo) Photo Gallery >>>

Special Report: Execution of Saddam Hussein
Chronology: Saddam Hussein's trials
Profile: Former Iraqi president Saddam Hussein

    BEIJING, Dec. 31 -- World leaders have been weighing in on the execution of former Iraqi president Saddam Hussein. Division remains about whether the former Iraqi strongman should have been executed.

    The Chinese Foreign Ministry says the execution is Iraq's internal affair and should be decided by the Iraqi people. The ministry also says China hopes Iraq can achieve stability and development at an early date.

    Sadam Hussein was put to death days before the arrival of the new year. US President George W. Bush has stated that justice has been served with the execution. A close ally of the Bush Administration, Australian Prime Minister John Howard says the Iraqis had given the dictator a fair trial.

    European leaders are united in their opposition to the death penalty. They have also expressed deep concerns over the security situation in Iraq in the post-Saddam era.

    Angela Merkel, German Chancellor, said, "While the German government respects this verdict, it is well-known that the German government opposes the death penalty."

    Romand Prodi, Italian Prime Minister, said, "I don't want to only express my personal reservations on the death penalty. I also wish to express my concern for a possible increase in tensions in the area. That is happening in the first hours following the execution. I hope that the situation won't get even worse in the future. "

    The response from leaders of Muslim countries is also divided.

    Hamid Karzai, Afghan President, said, "The execution of the ex-president of Iraq is the work of the Iraqi government. We wish happiness and success for the Iraqi people."

    Shukat Aziz, Pakistan Prime Minister, said, "Yes this is a very sad event and a depressing day. It is always the desire of the Pakistani Government to keep peace in Iraq and give the Iraqi people the right to decide their future destiny. Pakistan has always supported Iraqi sovereignty, integrity and unity. We hope to God that peace will prevail in Iraq."

    In Pakistan the execution sparked street protests in the eastern Punjab Province, 650 kilometers southwest of the capital Islamabad. Angry demonstrations also occurred in neighboring India. Protesters in Indian controlled Kashmir as well as in New Delhi condemned Saddam's execution.

(Source: CCTV.com)