Libya: The SG’s Special Envoy for Libya, Abdul Ilah Khatib, is in Tripoli continuing discussions with Libyan officials. He met with FM Musa Kousa and reiterated the SG’s calls and the calls of the Security Council for an immediate end to the violence. In addition, he also called for cooperation from the authorities on human rights and humanitarian concerns. Special Envoy Khatib asked for unfettered access to all relevant UN agencies by the Libyan Government in order to be able to assist the Libyan people and alleviate the suffering of those affected. Also, he was briefed by Rashid Khalikov, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Libya regarding talks and field visits that Khalikov already conducted in Libya on the country’s humanitarian needs. Meanwhile, UNHCR is growing increasingly worried that people need to seek refuge from combat areas and are either unable to go or have been prevented from being able to. It urges all parties to ensure safe passage for all civilians fleeing violence.
Security Council: the draft resolution establishing a no-fly zone over Libya was circulated today, and consultations will continue tomorrow morning.
Japan: the UNDAC has arrived in Japan and the team is based in Tokyo helping with information management. It plans to send a reconnaissance mission to Miyagi tomorrow. The Government of Japan asked IAEA to send a technical support team to the area affected by the recent developments at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant and coordinate international support on the nuclear response to Japan. IAEA continues to monitor the situation and is providing regular updates on its site.
Bahrain: The SG issued a statement late yesterday on the developments in the Kingdom of Bahrain, stating that he is troubled by the growing violence there. He noted with concern that troops from Saudi Arabia and UAE have reportedly entered Bahrain. The UN is in touch with government and all parties, including the opposition, in Bahrain. The SG strongly believes that peaceful means should be adopted for stability. Also, he urges for maximum restraint and underscores the responsibility of all parties in strict accordance with international humanitarian law.
Upcoming Event: Tomorrow, the Co-Chairs of the High-Level Panel on Global Sustainability will hold a dialogue with Member States. The SG, DSG Asha-Rose Migiro, President Tarja Halonen of Finland, and President Jacob Zuma of South Africa will be present.