On Thursday, French Foreign Minister, Jean-Yves Le Drian said that France was on good terms with Italy regarding their views on Libya.
In response to a question by West France about whether Libya is the subject of a dispute between Rome and Paris, Le Drian said: “We have greatly converged our views on Libya.” He added that this was embodied by their joint presidency of the Paris International Conference on Libya, which was held on 12 November.
Le Drian also stressed the need to hold the Libyan elections before the end of the year, as well as ensuring the “gradual withdrawal of foreign forces and mercenaries.”
Notably, French President, Emmanuel Macron said that the Paris conference reaffirmed French support for the political process in Libya, stressing the need for elections to be held on time, and without delay.
President Macron said that the presence of Libya’s neighbouring countries during the conference is “important,” adding that the international community showed unity over the Libyan issue.
He called on the Libyan authorities to find an inclusive path for the participation of all parties in the upcoming 24 December elections.
“The Libyan transition must be completed. The elections must take place in the best possible conditions,” Macron said.
The final statement of the Paris Conference, which was co-chaired by France, Italy and Germany, stressed the need for all parties to accept the results of the elections. It reiterated its support for a comprehensive political process in Libya. It also called for forming a reconciliation commission under the auspices of the country’s Presidential Council.
The participants added the need for the full respect of Libya’s sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and national unity. As well as their commitment to rejecting all foreign interference in Libyan affairs.