By IANS,
Berlin : German Chancellor Angela Merkel Thursday called for extensive sanctions against Libya while defending her country’s abstention at a UN vote which approved military action in the North African country, Xinhua reported.
“I hope we can finally reach a joint agreement on a complete oil embargo and extensive trade sanctions against Libya,” Merkel told the German parliament.
Merkel also voiced support for the aim of the recent UN resolution against Libya.
The UN Security Council authorised the no-fly zone to protect Libyan civilians after Gaddafi launched attacks against anti-government protesters who wanted him to leave after nearly 42 years in power.
“The German government supports the targets of this resolution without any hesitation,” Merkel told parliament, “The effects of the military actions are still disturbing. We hope to have quick and sustainable solutions for reaching UN goals.”
The abstention caused widespread criticism in Germany, from Merkel’s own party and the opposition.