The International Community Welcomes Libya's Decision to Abandon Weapons of Mass Destruction - 2003-12-20

The international community has welcomed Libya's decision to abandon its weapons of mass destruction program, with several leaders describing it as a step towards halting the proliferation of nuclear weapons. Amr Moussa, Secretary-General of the Arab League, urged Israel, which is said to possess such weapons, to follow Libya's example. Ahmed Maher, Egypt's Foreign Minister, stated that other Middle Eastern countries should end any nuclear weapons production programs without naming Israel. Israel expressed its approval of Libya's decision. China and Japan are among the countries that warmly welcomed Libya's decision to abandon its weapons of mass destruction. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that China supports strengthening dialogue and international cooperation in addressing issues related to preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons. A spokesperson for the Japanese government praised Libya's decision as a step towards stopping the spread of nuclear weapons, indicating that Libya has come into cooperation with the international community. The French Foreign Minister described Libya's action as an important step towards Tripoli's full return to the international community, but also urged Libyan officials to negotiate compensation for the families of victims of a French plane shot down in 1989. Jack Straw, the British Foreign Secretary, stated that Muammar Gaddafi, the leader of Libya, demonstrated significant political leadership by condemning weapons of mass destruction, which is commendable.