"This resolution marks the beginning of the end of the Libyan chemical weapons programme."
Statement by Rt Hon Boris Johnson MP, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, on Libya at the UN Security Council
Thank you very much Mr President.
This is my first visit to the United Nations as Foreign Secretary and I am delighted that it coincides with the unanimous adoption of a resolution that marks an important step forward for international peace and security.
I recognise that this excellent work goes on day in, day out, and I’m delighted today to be a part of it.
This resolution marks the beginning of the end of the Libyan chemical weapons programme. It grants the legal authorisation necessary for the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons to remove the chemical precursors of those weapons from Libya so that they can be destroyed in a third country. In doing so, we have reduced the risk of these weapons falling into the hands of terrorists and fanatics.
I would like to thank Council members for their role in making this resolution possible. It’s a sign of the strength of international cooperation on Libya that we were able to come together so quickly to agree it.
Together, we have shown our collective commitment to the people and authorities of Libya, and, ultimately, to all of us who want to live in a world free from chemical weapons. The UK is committed to making this world a reality, including through our permanent seat here in the UN Security Council.
What we have done today is a good example of the role of the UN in tackling the global challenges. It is also an example of the United Kingdom’s continued determination to play a leading role through the UN, together with you, our partners in the Security Council.
Thank you very much.