President,
I have listened attentively to the briefing by Deputy Prosecutor Nazhat Shameem Khan, and welcome the Permanent Representative of Libya to today's meeting.
China has been closely following the ICC Libya-related investigations, and has taken note of the Prosecutor's 30th report. In view of the report's findings and the current situation in Libya, I would like to make three points.
First, the Court should strictly act in accordance with the law and its mandate. China has consistently supported efforts to combat and punish serious crimes that threaten international peace and security, and attaches great importance to the role of the ICC in this regard. China notes the progress made by the Office of the Prosecutor in implementing the investigation roadmap as mentioned in the report. When addressing the relevant situation, the Court should adhere to the principle of complementarity under the Rome Statute, uphold independence, objectivity, and impartiality, strike a balance between judicial justice and peace and stability, and avoid politicization or double standards.
Second, the Court should strengthen its cooperation with the country concerned. We welcome the Prosecutor's report highlighting the positive engagement between the Libyan authorities and the Office of the Prosecutor. As the Court advances the four main investigative tracks, it should fully respect Libya's judicial sovereignty and jurisdiction, heed the country’s legitimate concerns, and maintain close communication and cooperation with the Libyan authorities. At the same time, it should assist Libya in strengthening its domestic judicial institutions and capacity-building and improving its judicial system to better safeguard fairness and justice.
Third, the international community should support Libya in advancing its political transition. China calls on all Libyan parties to uphold the ceasefire, properly address differences, and create a conducive environment for a political settlement. The Security Council should support UNSMIL in playing a more active role, adhere to the Libyan-led and Libyan-owned principle, and encourage all parties to engage in inclusive dialogue and consultations to break the political deadlock as soon as possible. The international community should fully respect Libya's sovereignty and ownership and refrain from undue interference or pressure.
China stands ready to work with the international community to continue our constructive role in helping Libya maintain peace and stability and achieve development and prosperity.
Thank you, President.