Tripoli, 3 May 2013:
Canada today joined the rising tide of international concern at the surrounding of Tripoli ministries by militiamen who . . .[restrict]are demanding the Political Isolation Legislation be passed by the GNC on Sunday.
Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird said: “Canada is increasingly concerned over the persistent lawlessness in Libya, notably the armed groups that have besieged a number of government offices”.
The Canadian politician pledged the Ottawa government’s backing for Libya: “Canada fully supports the government of Prime Minister Ali Zeidan, ” he said, “and calls on the Libyan government to exercise its proper authority in ensuring stability and security for its citizens and members of the diplomatic and business communities.”
Baird warned: “The Libyan revolution brought freedom to the Libyan people who have since embarked on a path toward full democracy and respect for the rule of law and human rights. The actions of a few risk these important achievements”.
Canada’s intervention echoes strong concerns expressed by the French Foreign Ministry yesterday. A statement issued by the Quai d’Orsay read: “France strongly condemns the siege by militias, of various Libyan ministries. Such unacceptable acts are impeding the proper functioning of government. These repeated incidents highlight the urgency of restoring security in Libya”.
The French foreign ministry urged all Libyans to rally around the Zeidan government and the GNC, as the only legitimate authority since the July 2012 elections. It also urged citizens to rebuilt the new Libya on the basis of national unity, tolerance, dignity and peace and in particular stressed the urgent need to adopt a new constitution.
It concluded: “As we recalled after the attack against our embassy in Tripoli last week, France intends to stand alongside Libya. It reiterates its full support for the ongoing transition process and the establishment of a rule of law, based on democratic institutions and respect for freedoms, in accordance with the aspirations of the Libyan people”.
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