Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Libya.
Colleagues, the briefers have given us a stark assessment of the fragile stalemate in Libya. The current situation is unsustainable, with some Libyan actors pursuing their own interests, only benefiting a handful of Libya's elites. The Libyan people deserve political stability in a unified country with peace, security and prosperity.
I would like to make three points today.
First, we welcome the successful first phase of municipal elections in Libya, marking the first time Libyans have gone to the polls in over a decade. We must build on this success, and we call on Libyan authorities to provide the necessary resources and leadership for the second phase.
Second, we welcome the plan DSRSG Koury has outlined today for a new, inclusive, Libyan-led effort to lead the country towards elections and a sustainable, secure, prosperous future.
The UN plan provides a framework, but the solutions can only come from Libyans themselves. We encourage Libya's leaders to engage with the UN process in good faith and with the spirit of compromise, for the benefit of all Libyans.
We stress our continued support to UNSMIL and DSRSG Koury in the implementation of her plan to achieve a long-term political solution and to enable elections.
Third, we welcome the Panel of Experts recent report and recommendations. We share their concerns around the continued ineffectiveness of the arms embargo, the increasing smuggling of diesel, and the violations and abuses of human rights.
We look forward to working with Council members to renew the sanctions regime and panel of expert's mandate next month.
Finally, President, we encourage the UN to appoint a new Special Representative as soon as possible.
President, with international unity and the engagement of Libya's leaders, we can work together to find political solutions and enable a better future for the Libyan people. The UK fully supports the efforts of the UN and DSRSG Koury in achieving this.
