Statement by H.E. Ambassador ISHIKANE Kimihiro, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Briefing on “the Situation in Libya”

Thank you, Madam President,

I also thank SRSG Bathily for his update and Ms. El Jerbi for her insightful briefing. I also welcome Ambassador Elsonni who joins us today.

At the outset, Japan renews its strong call that presidential and parliamentary elections be held across Libya without delay.

After seeing the efforts made by the 6+6 Committee, Security Council members unanimously voiced the need to further build on the progress achieved to secure a legal basis and political agreement to conduct free, fair, transparent, inclusive, and safe elections. Elections are the only way to restore the legitimacy of the country’s institutions. Regrettably, Libyan political stakeholders have not yet reached the consensus necessary to pave the way toward elections.

To realize the long-awaited elections, Japan strongly believes that the Council must fully support SRSG Bathily’s ongoing efforts to facilitate a political negotiation and compromise among the Libyan actors. While Japan notes the meeting in Benghazi on 19 August, the Council should also urge Libyan actors to engage constructively with Mr. Bathily’s efforts. Japan hopes to support a truly Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process.

Madam President,

Turning to the issue of security, Japan expresses sincere condolences for the family members of those who were killed in the recent violent clashes in Tripoli. Japan also notes with concern that the situations in Sudan has significantly slowed down the efforts aimed at the withdrawal of foreign forces, foreign fighters, and mercenaries. On another note, Japan welcomes the recent meeting of the Security Working Group in Benghazi to create a safe and conducive environment for the elections.

On economic issues, Japan welcomes the announcement of the finalization of the reunification of the Central Bank of Libya (CBL) and notes with appreciation the establishment of the High Financial Oversight Committee (HFOC) to ensure fair and transparent spending and distribution of national resources. We sincerely hope that these developments will help create momentum towards unifying all the country's political, security and military institutions.

With regard to the asset freeze measure, we welcome the discussion between the Libyan Investment Authority (LIA) and the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011) concerning Libya earlier this month on the progress made in the implementation of the LIA’s Transformation Strategy.

Lastly, Japan joins others in expressing concern about increasing restrictions imposed on the activities of civil society organizations (CSOs) on the ground. We call for the Libyan government to take necessary steps to clarify the legal basis for their activities.

Let me conclude my statement by reiterating Japan’s strong commitment to the Libyan people and their aspirations for a stable and peaceful Libya.

I thank you.