UNGA 74
Security Council meeting
Statement on the developments in Libya
January 30, New York
Thank you, Mr. President,
I thank SRSG Salamé for the briefing on the latest developments on Libya. Estonia fully supports the UN-facilitated political process in Libya and the SRSG’s work towards that end.
Estonia welcomes the commitments made in the Berlin conference on Libya that took place on January 19. The conference as a step towards creating space for an intra-Libyan political process was a success and we congratulate all the participatory states and international organisations for achieving that.
Now, however, concrete steps need to be taken by all participants to honour the commitments and implement the Berlin conference conclusions. The most urgent step at this stage is putting an end to the violations of the arms embargo. In this regard, it is important to send a unified message from the Security Council and move on with the endorsement of the Berlin Conference conclusions.
The developments in the security situation in Libya and the recent reports about the resumed fighting on the ground are extremely worrisome. We call on all parties to adhere to the truce that was agreed upon in Berlin and take concrete steps towards achieving a lasting ceasefire. It is absolutely clear that there can be no military solution to the conflict. The Libyan people deserve better than this.
Moreover, the Security Council has at its disposal the sanctions tools to address the spoilers of peace and security in Libya, and it should consider using those measures when and where necessary.
The essential step in moving towards the ceasefire is the direct dialogue between the Libyan parties. We very much welcome the nomination of representatives of the 5+5 Joint Military Commission and hope that the first meeting can take place at the earliest possibility. Agreeing to the terms of the ceasefire is a crucial step in order to move on and concentrate on the political process in Libya.
The goal of a stable Libya with fully functioning unified state institutions and authority can only be achieved through a Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process. For the political process to truly succeed it needs to be inclusive. The adequate representation and meaningful engagement of women and youth throughout the entire process is of critical importance.
Finally, Mr. President, addressing the violations to the international humanitarian law and human rights law must remain high on the agenda. We need to keep working towards protecting the civilians, including women and children, and hold the perpetrators accountable.
I thank you!
Watch the full briefing online: http://webtv.un.org/live/watch/libya-8710th-security-council-meeting/6128400815001/?term=