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UNITED NATIONS, Jun 26 (APP):Pakistan has underscored the need for Libyan stakeholders to “address the absence of a definite roadmap” for the political reconciliation process and the reunification of institutions in the divided country.
“Open-ended processes will not encourage the relevant stakeholders to act with a sense of urgency,” Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, permanent representative of Pakistan to the UN, warned during the UN Security Council briefing on UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL)
Nearly 15 years after Gaddafi’s fall, Libya remains split between the internationally recognized Government of National Unity in Tripoli, and the rival Government of National Stability in Benghazi.
Following last month’s clashes in Tripoli, a truce was reached on 14 May, but top UN envoy Hanna Tetteh said that the
fighting in the capital “temporarily disrupted UN development and humanitarian operations.”
On 18 May, with support from the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), the Presidential Council established a Truce Committee.
Composed of key security actors, the body has been mandated to monitor the upholding of the ceasefire, facilitate a permanent end to the fighting and ensure the protection of civilians.
As UNSMIL works to ease tensions and prevent further clashes, the Presidential Council has also set up a temporary Security and Military Arrangement Committee, tasked with sustaining peace and reorganizing security forces in the capital.
“The truce, however, remains fragile, and the overall security situation unpredictable,” said Ms. Tetteh.
In his remarks, Asim Iftikhar, the Pakistani envoy voiced Pakistan’s concern about the clashes that erupted in Tripoli in May, as well as those reported earlier this month, noting the fragile truce.
“We encourage all Libyan stakeholders to address the outstanding issues through inclusive national dialogue with support from UNSMIL,” he told the 15-member Council.
In this regard, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar also welcomed the UN envoy’s intention to present a roadmap for the Council’s consideration. “Additionally, the political reconciliation process should provide peace dividends to all citizens and prioritize securing an equitable distribution of national resources.”
As a steadfast friend of the Libyan people, he said Pakistan reaffirms its commitment to Libya’s sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national unity.
“We firmly believe that a Libyan-led and owned political process is the only path towards sustainable peace and stability in the country.”
The Pakistani envoy called on the international community to continue to support Libya in its journey toward peace, reconciliation, and national unity.
“Enhanced coordination between the UN, regional organizations and concerned countries will be critical to sustaining momentum and fostering a durable political solution,” he said.
“Pakistan stands in solidarity with the people of Libya and will continue to contribute actively to the United Nations’ efforts to promote peace and stability in Libya.”