Europe wants full probe over missing Saudi journalist

The European Commission said Thursday it had conveyed its expectation of a transparent and comprehensive investigation into the disappearance of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi to authorities in the Kingdom.

"We've passed this message very clearly, not just publicly but also in direct contact," Commission spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic said in press briefing in Brussels.

On Tuesday, EU Foreign Policy Chief Federica Mogherini said: "We expect a thorough investigation and full transparency from the Saudi authorities on what has happened."

Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi has been missing since Oct. 2, when he visited the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul.

Saudi authorities have yet to give a clear explanation on the fate of Khashoggi as several countries -- particularly Turkey, the U.S. and the U.K. -- press for clarification.