(Delivered in French)

Statement by Minister Takeshi Akahori
At the Briefing of the United Nations Security Council
On “The Situation in Libya”
9 November 2016

 

 

Thank you Mr. President,

 

          I thank Prosecutor Bensouda for her briefing and report. Japan emphasizes its conviction that the perpetrators of serious crimes must be held accountable for their actions and commends the accomplishments by the International Criminal Court to date. Japan has consistently supported the ICC so that it will function effectively and sustainably to promote the rule of law, with the support of the international community.

 

Mr. President,

 

          Japan strongly believes that more and more States should join the ICC to ensure that the Court can effectively promote the rule of law. In the long run, the ICC should aim at becoming a truly universal criminal court and gain stronger support for its work. In this regard, like Spain, we are worried about the recent decisions taken by some African States to withdraw from the ICC. In order to secure support and cooperation from a greater number of States, the ICC and its States Parties should listen to the concerns expressed by some on its role.

 

Mr. President,

 

          Let me now turn to Libya. Japan welcomes the fact that the Libyan Prosecutor-General's Office has been cooperative on many matters with the ICC. We encourage the Government of National Accord in Libya and the international community to cooperate with the Court, pursuant to Resolutions 1970 (2011) and 2259 (2015).

 

          We are aware of the current political and security situation in Libya and the serious difficulties that its authorities are facing. Under these circumstances, Mr. Saif al-Islam Gaddafi remains outside the custody of the Court.

 

          Japan hopes that with the improvement of the situation the existing cooperation between the Libyan authorities and the ICC will be strengthened, enabling the ICC to play a greater role in the fight against impunity and justice being served.

 

Mr. President,

 

          As regards the ongoing violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law in Libya, Japan notes with particular interest that the Prosecutor’s report mentions a possible issuing of additional arrest warrants. We hope to hear detailed updates on this matter.

 

          Japan reiterates the importance of forming a representative, united Libyan government. The Presidency Council should work swiftly to submit the revised list of cabinet members to the House of Representatives. The House of Representatives, at the same time, should give due consideration to the list. It is essential that all parties uphold their obligations under the Libyan Political Agreement. Japan continues to support the ongoing efforts made by SRSG Martin Kobler, UNSMIL and the GNA to promote the political process.

 

Mr. President,

 

          Japan fully supports the activities of the ICC, including those of the Office of the Prosecutor. My delegation looks forward to hearing tangible progress on today’s agenda.

 

I thank you, Mr. President.