• Created：2011-03-22
• Data Source：Bureau Of Consular Affairs
• Counter：1929

The Republic of China (Taiwan) has joined other members of the international community to express deep concern over the situation in Libya, which has rapidly deteriorated over the past month. It also has acknowledged the resolution of March 17, 2011 by the United Nations Security Council approving a no-fly zone over Libya and authorizing member states to take all necessary emergency measures to protect the people of Libya. It was hoped that such actions would lead to an immediate ceasefire in Libya.

The government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) believes that the turmoil and instability in Libya threaten peace and security in North Africa and hurt the development of the global economy. Therefore, it respects the UN’s resolution on the no-fly zone over Libya.

On March 18, Libya’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Mussa Kussa announced his country’s acceptance of the UN resolution and declared an immediate ceasefire so as to protect civilians. However, Libya’s leader Muammar Gaddafi broke the promise, leading to a military sanction on Libya by the United Nations. On March 20, immediately following an air strike by France, the United States and the United Kingdom fired missiles at key targets in the country.

The government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) calls on the government of Libya to honor its promise to cease fire and the UN Security Council’s resolution, and handle domestic disputes through peaceful means. The wish of the people of Libya to pursue democracy should be ensured.

Taiwan has a representative office in Libya. However, due to the heightened instability in Tripoli, the staff members of the office and other Taiwanese nationals have been evacuated from the country on February 25, 2011. The government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) earnestly hopes that Libya can regain stability through peaceful means at the earliest moment possible. (E)