Hardly two weeks have passed and the situation in Libya has seriously deteriorated. It is clear that Gaddafi’s government has ignored the demands made by the international community.
Within this context, the Security Council has adopted Resolution 1973 (2011) of 17 March, of which we would like to highlight the following aspects:
- Demand an immediate ceasefire in Libya, including an end to the current attacks against civilians.
- Authorize all necessary measures to protect civilians from attacks by the Libyan armed forces.
- Impose a ban on all flights in Libyan airspace (no-fly zone except for humanitarian aid and the evacuation of foreign nationals).
- Recognize the important role of the League of Arab States in the maintenance of international peace and security in the region.
Within this context, and with a view to enforcing the UN Security Council’s Resolution, operation Odyssey Dawn began on Saturday 19 March.
In the light of these circumstances, and following a detailed analysis of the situation, the Basque National Party (EAJ-BNP) makes the following statements:
One. It declares its support for UN Security Council Resolution 1973 (2011) and, specifically, for the demand for an immediate ceasefire, sharing the need to intensify the diplomatic efforts required to seek a solution to the crisis through a dialogue that will lead to the political reforms required to respond to the legitimate demands of the Libyan people. It trusts that Resolution 1973 (2011), due to the system for securing agreements and consensus within the arrangement for international security, has not been adopted too late in view of the serious worsening of the situation in Libya.
Two. It demands that the adoption and implementation of the necessary measures for closing the airspace and protecting the civilian population are conducted within the bounds of international law, in other words, pursuant to and upholding the cautions and conditions provided for in Resolution 1973 (2011) and in the UN Charter. We understand, accordingly, that the involvement of the countries in the League of Arab States and the Organization of African Unity is absolutely essential for the satisfactory outcome of the measures adopted under the auspices of the Resolution.
Three. It demands, therefore, that the use of military force is made in a manner that is consistent with and proportionate to the strict observance of the goals established in Resolution 1973 (2011). We shall be vigilant on this matter and denounce any breach of international law, which would annul the required legitimacy of the actions.
Four. It regrets the lack of unity shown by the European Union in the Security Council. It reiterates accordingly the need for a common European policy in foreign affairs and defence if, as it should, Europe seeks to be a major player on the world’s geopolitical stage. This is even more expedient when the conflict, as in this case, is on its Mediterranean doorstep. In turn, we stress that the European Union should be represented by a single delegate on the UN Security Council. It therefore calls for the mainstay of European foreign policy to be the defence of human rights and freedoms over and above any other consideration or interest of a geostrategic or economic nature.