On Saturday, the US Ambassador to Libya Richard Norland held a telephone conversation with the Head of the Tebu Congress Issa Abdul Majeed Mansour to discuss the challenges facing stability and security in Libya.
During the talks, Norland reiterated the need for concerted efforts to ensure the departure of foreign forces, unify state institutions, and pave the way for parliamentary and presidential elections as scheduled on December 24.
In turn, Mansour expressed concerns about the fair electoral representation of ethnic and national minorities. Norland reaffirmed U.S. support for this important principle.
The US Ambassador also hailed ongoing efforts and achievements of the 5+5 Joint Military Commission (JMC), saying that the opening of the Coastal Road is another step in strengthening peace, security, and stability in Libya.
Before the opening of the Coastal Road, in a telephone conversation with the Special Envoy, the JMC acknowledged the critical role of the Special Envoy and UNSMIL in support of the JMC’s work and requested the continued assistance of the Mission in implementing the Ceasefire Agreement.
The JMC called on the Mission to facilitate a meeting with international stakeholders to discuss a plan for the withdrawal of mercenaries, foreign fighters, and foreign forces from Libya without delay.
The JMC also requested the expeditious deployment of the UN Ceasefire monitors in support of the Libyan-led Ceasefire Monitoring Mechanism. The Special Envoy reaffirmed the UN’s commitment and continued support to the work of the JMC as well as its support for the requests of the Commission.
Special Envoy Kubiš assured the JMC that he will work with all relevant national and international stakeholders to advance the full implementation of the Ceasefire Agreement.
In accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2570 of 16 April 2021 and the Ceasefire Agreement, the Mission renewed its call to all national and international parties to expedite the implementation of the Ceasefire Agreement and to support the exemplary efforts of the 5+5 Joint Military Commission.