Tripoli, 23 July:
European Union foreign ministers today called for the drafting process for a new Libyan Constitution to be “inclusive and . . .[restrict]transparent”. They also want the new Constitution to reflect: “the aspirations of the Libyan people for dignity and justice by ensuring respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all women and men, including protection of minorities, and democratic values.”
The ministers, meeting in the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels today, also welcomed: “the pluralistic and overall peaceful conduct of Libyan elections for the National General Congress on 7 July 2012”. Further, they saluted: “the important work undertaken by the Libyan National Transitional Council under the chairmanship of Mr. Abdul Jalil and by the interim government led by Prime Minister Mr. Al-Kib, often under extremely difficult circumstances.”
Their statement continued: “The EU looks forward to working with the future Libyan government to be appointed following the establishment of the General National Congress, and hopes that the appointment process will retain the momentum of transition and enable the new Libyan Government to start work as soon as possible.”
The ministers also stressed “the fundamental importance of respecting the rule of law and protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms for all women and men during the process of transition” . They called on the authorities to address and investigate reports of torture and illegal detention and to bring those responsible to justice.
“The EU urges the Libyan central Government to accelerate the process of bringing all places of detention under its full control.”
The ministers’ statement continued: “The EU reiterates its readiness to provide further assistance, including through CSDP (Common Security and Defence Policy) if appropriate, in the areas of security and border management, in close partnership with Libya’s new democratic authorities and in coordination with UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) and the rest of the international community.”
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