May 14, 2024
President,
I have listened attentively to the briefing by Prosecutor Karim Khan. I welcome the presence of the Permanent Representative of Libya at today’s meeting.
China’s position on the ICC’s work in Libya remains unchanged. The case currently before the ICC was referred to the Court in 2011. We take note of the roadmap for completion of the investigation phase outlined by the Prosecutor. We hope that the ICC, in its work going forward, will strictly abide by the principle of complementarity enshrined in the Rome Statute, maintain an independent, objective, and impartial position, fully respect the judicial sovereignty and legitimate views of the countries concerned, and maintain close communication and cooperation with the Libyan authorities.
Achieving peace and stability in Libya is a prerequisite for delivering judicial justice. The international community should uphold the Libyan-led and Libyan-owned principle, respect the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, support intra-Libya dialogue and consultation, promote political transition, and avoid imposing external solutions. The ICC, when carrying out its Libya-related activities, should contribute to strengthening solidarity and unity among the Libyans and avoid amplifying differences and tensions.
China supports the punishment of the most serious international crimes for the maintenance of international peace and security. When confronted with major crises and challenges that are of great concern to the international community, the ICC should exercise its powers in accordance with the law, apply international law in an equal and consistent manner, avoid double standards and exceptionalism, and effectively safeguard international equity and justice.
Thank you, President.