UN Special Rep calls for resumption of political process in Libya

03 Septembre 2020

Tripoli, Libya, September 3 (Infosplusgabon) - The Acting Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Libya, Stephanie Williams, on Wednesday called for the resumption of the political process in Libya before the fragile opportunity created by the informal cessation of hostilities is lost.

In her videoconference briefing to the UN Security Council on the situation in Libya, Williams noted that the resumption of political activity in the West and East has led to the emergence of a group calling for a change in order to achieve a Libyan-Libyan solution to restore the country's sovereignty and distance itself from regional and international conflicts.

She referred to the dangers posed by the situation in Sirte, saying: "There is still a state of unrest around that city, which exposes its 120,000 inhabitants to risks, not to mention the vital oil infrastructure in the country which is an artery of economic life."

The Chairman of the Presidential Council, Fayez al-Sarraj, and the Speaker of Parliament, Aguila Saleh, issued two declarations on 21 August proclaiming a ceasefire throughout Libya, and a call to "resume the production and export of oil and freeze its revenues in a special account at the Libyan Foreign Bank pending a settlement among Libyans.

They called for a demilitarized solution in Sirte and al-Joufra.

The UN official added that "while the front lines have remained relatively calm since June, the Libyan Arab armed forces and forces under the control of the Government of National Accord are still benefiting from the unfortunate assistance provided by foreign parties sponsoring the stockpiling of weapons and advanced equipment", noting that "approximately 70 supply flights landed at eastern airports to support the General Command forces, while 30 supply flights were destined for airports in western Libya to support the Government of National Accord.

Similarly, about nine cargo ships landed at western ports in support of the Government of National Accord, while three cargo ships were reported to have arrived in support of the Libyan Arab Armed Forces, Williams said, adding that foreign sponsors are strengthening their assets at major Libyan air bases in the east and west.

She added that these activities are a serious violation of Libya's sovereignty and a blatant violation of the UN arms embargo, not to mention the commitments made by the participants at the Berlin conference.

The Mission continues to receive reports of the widespread presence of mercenaries and foreign agents, further complicating the local dynamics and the chances of a future settlement," said Williams.

FIN/ INFOSPLUSGABON/TFG/GABON2020

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