US President George W. Bush believes that ousted former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein's trial will meet "basic standards of international law" and hopes that it will help heal Iraq, the White House said on Wednesday.

This is another important step in building a new and democratic Iraq based on the rule of law. And I think the trial is a symbol that the rule of law is returning to Iraq," White House spokesman Scott McClellan said at a briefing.

McClellan said on Tuesday that the trial of Saddam Hussein was up to the Iraqis to decide and the special tribunal to try Saddam should meet basic international standards.

The United States invaded Iraq and toppled the Saddam regime. Saddam, 68, appeared in court on Wednesday along with seven other senior officials of his regime.

Some critics and human rights groups have warned that Saddam and his top aides may not be able to get a fair trial.

Source: Xinhua