Tunisian Foreign Minister, Othman Jerandi praised the political progress made in Libya, and affirmed his support for the upcoming Presidential elections to be held on 24 December.
During a meeting with his Congolese counterpart, Jean-Claude Gakosso, the two discussed the current developments in Libya and ways to resolve the crisis.
Jerandi reportedly assured Gakosso of the importance of advancing the political track in Libya. He also expressed Tunisia’s readiness to support the Libyans in their efforts to “restore stability in their country, devote themselves to reconstruction and the advancement of their economy in accordance with a Libyan vision and leadership.”
The Tunisian FM pointed to the important role of neighbouring countries and regional organizations, especially the African Union. This is to support efforts to complete the political track, in partnership with Libya and the international community.
He expressed Tunisia’s keenness to continue consultations and coordination with the African Union at this important stage, so that the Libyan people can achieve their democratic aspirations.
The Congo currently chairs the African Union’s high-level committee on Libya. Gakosso announced that he will travel to Libya, at the Head of a delegation from the African Union.
He also praised the role played by Tunis in mobilising regional and international efforts to complete the political track, and restore security and stability to Libya.
On Tuesday, Libya’s 5+5 Joint Military Commission (JMC) held a meeting in Tunisia to discuss the withdrawal of mercenaries and foreign forces from Libya.
There are an estimated 23,000 mercenaries in Libya, consisting of fighters from Libya’s southern neighbours, in addition to large numbers of Syrians, according to the latest statistics of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR).