The unanimous adoption of the resolution to enforce the arms embargo against Libya sends a positive signal. We are pleased that, after intensive negotiations, we have managed today to reach an agreement on this highly controversial dossier. This shows that the Security Council is certainly capable of pulling in the same direction with respect to the Libya dossier. We all know that a lasting ceasefire in Libya is long overdue. The basis for this is an end to the arms race between the parties to the conflict and thus also an end to military support from outside.

With Operation IRINI, Europe is showing that it is not only supporting the arms embargo with words, but also helping to implement it with deeds. It is important that today’s extension is now giving the operation planning security for a further 12 months. The next step is for the parties to the conflict to return to the negotiating table at long last. We hope that a start for this has been made with the resumption of the 5+5 talks. We consider today’s success to be both a source of encouragement and a call to action. We will continue to do our part to help the people of Libya on the path towards lasting peace.