Statement by H.E. Ambassador YAMAZAKI Kazuyuki, 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 thank DSRSG Koury for updating the on-the-ground situation in Libya.I also thank Mr. Omar for his briefing and welcome the Permanent Representative of Libya, Ambassador Taher El-Sonni, among us.

As I have just completed my last briefing as the Chair of the Committee pursuant to the resolution 1970, I would like to repeat my sincere gratitude, in my national and personal capacity, to the Committee members, Member States, the Panel of Experts, and the Secretariat, the staff of my Mission, for their cooperation. In the case of Libya, the sanctions measures, especially the asset freeze on the Libyan Investment Authority, are not punitive but rather are designed to promote peace and stability in Libya and serve for the future benefit of the Libyan people. I hope that the Committee will continue to be guided by this principle until this regime accomplishes its purpose.

Today, I would like to mention four points drawing from what Japan has experienced during its Council term.

First, there is an urgent need to revitalise a Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process facilitated by the United Nations. Over the past several years, there have been some key initiatives to restore the legitimacy and unity of Libyan state institutions through the holding of national elections. These initiatives have not realised a solid outcome but have clearly shown that the stakeholders must compromise to move the process forward. Japan supports the new, inclusive approach that Ms. Koury has just announced and calls for the political parties to constructively engage, placing the people’s interests first instead of their own ambitions.

Second, Japan is gravely concerned about the unprecedentedly increased influence of armed groups on state institutions. While welcoming the negotiated resolution of the recent crisis at the Central Bank of Libya, we call on all Libyan parties to refrain from the use of any unilateral and forcible measures that increase tensions, distrust and fragmentation. In this vein, Japan supports the 5+5 Joint Military Commission in advancing unification of the military and security sectors, and UNSMIL in conducting its conflict prevention mandate.

Thirdly, Japan remains concerned about continuous reports of systematic human rights violations and abuses against Libyans and migrants, and excessive restrictions on civic space. We support the role played by civil society and the international community to fight against impunity. We also support their efforts in ensuring the full, equal, effective, meaningful and safe participation of women and the inclusion of youth. Japan also welcomes the Libyan-led transitional justice and national reconciliation process complemented by the United Nations and the African Union.

Lastly, Japan calls on the Security Council to continue to back UNSMIL in a united voice. Under Ms. Koury’s leadership, UNSMIL has conducted various tasks as an integrated mission. Japan calls for the swift appointment of a new SRSG. In the meantime, the Council should empower the Mission for the upcoming period by smoothly renewing its mandate even if one is not appointed before the end of January.

To conclude, Japan joins others in congratulating the people of Libya for exercising their political rights through peaceful and transparent municipal elections. It expresses hope for political stability in the future.

I thank you.