US Ambassador to Libya, Richard Norland reiterated his support for the 5 + 5 Joint Military Commission (JMC). He praised the progress in implementing the ceasefire agreement.
The US Ambassador Norland praised the efforts and important consultations held in Cairo with neighbouring countries, as part of efforts to withdraw mercenaries and foreign fighters.
The US Ambassador wished the JMC success in its ongoing regional discussions, as well as praising the role of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) in facilitating this process.
Notably, the commissions meeting in Cairo with representatives of Chad, Niger, and Sudan resulted in an agreement to coordinate and establish a mechanism to withdraw all foreign forces from Libya.
On Thursday, the Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Jan Kubis commended the members of the JMC.
In a statement, he described the outcomes of the meeting as, “an important achievement allowing practical steps to be taken to ensure the departure of all mercenaries and foreign fighters coming from these countries as a first step towards the full and timely implementation of 23 October 2020 Ceasefire Agreement, in line with UNSC resolution 2570 (2021).”
“I am honoured to witness this progress achieved by Libya, Chad, Niger, and Sudan, working in the spirit of common interest and partnership that will open the doors to sustainable stability, security, development, and cooperation in the region” Kubis added.
He also confirmed that this responds to the overwhelming demand of the Libyan people, and further creates positive momentum in light of the upcoming Presidential and Parliamentary elections on 24 December.
The UN Envoy also commended Egypt for hosting and supporting this important meeting, which was requested by the JMC and facilitated by UNSMIL.
Kubis voiced the UN’s appreciation for the “spirit of patriotism and commitment of the JMC working as one.” As well as encouraging the JMC to “seize this opportunity to further the full implementation of the Ceasefire Agreement, assisted by the UN through the deployment of the first group of UN ceasefire monitors,” which took place on 21 October.
The UNSMIL Head called on all member states to support the JMC and Libyan authorities. He stressed the need for neighbouring countries to implement the departure of all mercenaries and foreign fighters in a manner that ensures the stability of Libya, and the region.