Global General

Indonesia, others urge cease fire in Libya

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2011-03-28 13:59

JAKARTA - Indonesia and other countries are urging the United Nations to implement cease fire in Libya as security situation is worsening, a minister said here on Monday.

Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa told a parliamentary hearing that Indonesia's position is clear that the country opposes violence in setting problems as it would augment the number of victim from civilians.

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"Currently, Indonesia and other countries in the United Nations Headquarters are composing a joint letter to the president of Security Council so that cease fire could be implemented and political dialogue between parties could be initiated," said Natalegawa.

According to Natalegawa, the UN must realize its presence in Libya to make sure that cease fire could be obeyed.

"Indonesia is sure that political affairs must be settled peacefully through democratic process and dialogue. We don't tolerate violence," he said.

He also said that beleaguered countries and people must be independent in settling their own problems without any intervention.

"We have taken concrete efforts, such as writing a letter to the UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon and he has answered the letter, saying that the UN supports Indonesia's position and it will follow up Indonesia's concern," said Natalegawa.

Natalegawa also said that 'a humanitarian corridor' for civilians must be created for their protection.

"However, all the efforts would not be enough without a political dialogue," said Natalegawa.

Mahfud Siddiq, chairman of parliament's Commission I focusing on defense, foreign affairs and military, said that countries must learn form military operation by Western forces in the past so that Iraq case would not repeat again.

"Every country must settle its own problems independently, without intervention from any country, especially military one," he said.

According to Siddiq, Indonesia's political role is significant as a country that has a tight relation with countries in the Middle East and North Africa.