German chancellor urges tougher sanctions against Libya
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Berlin, March 24, IRNA -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel called on Thursday for tightening economic sanctions against the regime of Libyan dictator Moammar Qadhafi ahead of a summit of European Union leaders in Brussels.
Addressing the German parliament in Berlin, Merkel demanded a 'complete oil embargo and far-reaching trade restrictions for Libya.'
'I hope that we finally reach a common position on this issue,' the chancellor told parliament in Berlin.
The German leader reiterated her country did back the aims of a United Nations resolution to use military force against Qadhafi's regime, despite refusing to take part in such a military operation.
'The German government unreservedly supports the objectives of this resolution,' Merkel told MPs.
Germany abstained in last week's UN Security Council vote to create a no-fly zone over Libya, but has said it will indirectly support the operation by helping more in Afghanistan, thus freeing up allied forces there to move to the Mediterranean.
Berlin is also allowing the US to use its 22 military bases in Germany for an attack on Libya.
Political observers link Berlin's refusal to join the western military operation in Libya with upcoming key regional elections in Germany.
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Islamic Republic News Agency/IRNA NewsCode: 30309349
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