MOSCOW/BEIJING – Russia, China and India called for an end to “indiscriminate use of force” by foreign states taking part in military operations in Libya. A statement by the Chinese Foreign Ministry said the country opposed the use of force in international relations.
“China has noted the latest developments in Libya and expresses regret over the military attacks on Libya,” the statement said. Russia also issued a similarly worded statement in which it called for a ceasefire as soon as possible. China and Russia were the most prominent voices in opposition to military action in Libya within the 15-member UN Security Council.
However, neither blocked the UN resolution authorising the operation, abstaining in the Security Council vote on the issue rather than using their veto power. A statement by the Indian Foreign Ministry stressed for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. “India views with grave concern the continuing violence, strife and deteriorating humanitarian situation in Libya,” the statement said.
“It regrets the air strikes that are taking place. The measures adopted should mitigate and not exacerbate an already difficult situation for the people of Libya.” The African Union’s panel on Libya and the Arab League also called for an “immediate stop” to all attacks against Moamer Gaddafi’s forces.
“What has happened in Libya differs from the goal of imposing a no-fly zone and what we want is the protection of civilians and not bombing other civilians,” Arab League secretary general Amr Mussa told reporters.
“From the start we requested only that a no-fly zone be set up to protect Libyan civilians and avert any other developments or additional measures,” Mussa added.
