Minister Rosenthal: Khadaffi moet strijd nu staken
Minister Rosenthal van Buitenlandse Zaken over de ontwikkelingen in Libië: 'De roep om vrijheid en democratie van de bevolking zelf, en geduld en volharding, hebben het regime van Khadaffi op de knieën gekregen. Het is nu zaak de democratische transitie zorgvuldig vorm te geven'.
Khadaffi’s tijd is voorbij. Hij moet de strijd staken en daarmee verder bloedvergieten voorkomen. Leden van het Khadaffi-regime die verantwoordelijk zijn voor de misdaden tegen de menselijkheid moeten zich verantwoorden voor het Internationale Strafhof.
Gezamenlijke verklaring Benelux (Engelstalig)
The Benelux is pleased to see that the Libyan people, after 42 years of dictatorship, are so close to realising their aspirations for a free and democratic Libya. Their determination and persistence have culminated in the defeat of the Khadaffi regime. Khadaffi must step down immediately to avoid further bloodshed and to make way for a new Libya. Those who have committed crimes against humanity should answer for their actions before the International Criminal Court. We therefore welcome the arrest of Saif al-Islam Khadaffi.
The National Transitional Council (NTC) and all opposition forces should now assume their responsibilities and ensure the protection of all Libyans, while fully respecting human rights and humanitarian law. A rapid stabilization of the country is necessary, so democratic reforms, rule of law and economic reconstruction can be launched.
We believe that the international community and especially the UN should play a central role in ensuring a smooth and peaceful transition. For its part, the Benelux, bilaterally and within the EU as well as the UN, is committed to support Libya, in every way necessary, based on the concrete needs of the Libyan people. Benelux countries will continue their close cooperation within the International Contact Group on Libya, and look forward to a meeting of that Group at the earliest possible moment.
Once again, the Benelux countries salute the courage of the Libyans who have fought and are still fighting for their freedom. It is they who made this victory possible. We hope that they will soon take their first steps on the road to a new democratic Libya, a Libya that guarantees the freedom of all Libyans, based on respect for human rights and the rule of law.