Speech by President of the Republic Tarja Halonen at the High-Level Meeting on Libya at the United Nations on 20 September 2011 

CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY

First of all let me express my highest respect to the people of Libya in this historic change underway in the country. Finland stands ready to support Libya on the way ahead.

The struggle for democratic rule and civil liberties has brought Libyans together. Finland commends the National Transitional Council for underlining the need to continue building a sense of national unity, reconciliation, an inclusive political system and administration as well as respect for equal civil rights and freedom of expression.

A democratic state is built on the rule of law and effective protection of human rights. Finland highly appreciates the statements made by the Chairman of the NTC on the need to respect international human rights law and standards. At this critical moment, it is crucial to condemn all human rights violations and to assure that there is no impunity.

The United Nations Security Council has had a key role in mobilizing international action in support and for the protection of the Libyan people. It is vital that the United Nations continues to have a central responsibility in coordinating the international community’s contribution also in the future. Finland welcomes the UN Support Mission in Libya.

I would like to stress the crucial role of women in building a sustainable and just society for all. Finland urges the new Libya to ensure the full enjoyment of human rights for both women and men. Every effort should be made to harness the potential of all citizens and to guarantee equal rights for all, for the benefit of the future of Libya.

Finland is ready to respond to the requests by the Libyan authorities and civil society. We offer our support through the United Nations, the European Union and bilaterally, in order to build democracy, promote human rights and strengthen the rule of law.