New Delhi: The United Kingdom has called on the leaders of Libya to protect the civilians in the country and has urged them to reach a political settlement to resolve the ongoing conflict in the country, a UK press release stated.
In a statement delivered at the UN Security Council, the UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, James Kariuki, noted the “political initiatives taking place outside of the UN’s auspices, including the recent meeting of members of the House of Representatives and High State Council.”
“But these should be inclusive if they are to be effective, and should recognise the central role of UNSMIL, as mandated by this Council,” Kariuki added.
He said that the UK shares the growing concern expressed by the Panel of Experts over increasing violations and abuses of human rights, and raised alarm over the recent reports of unlawful arrests and mistreatment of journalists.
“There is also a continued lack of protection of women, restricting their ability to participate in all aspects of Libya’s civil, social, and political space. Libya can only prosper when its citizens enjoy universal rights, and when its leaders and institutions uphold the rule of law,” Kariuki said while addressing the UNSC.