The Prime Minister-designate of Libya’s Government of National Stability (GNS), Fathi Bashagha called for international support so he can help end the migration crisis in Europe.
Bashagha was appointed earlier this year by the Libyan Parliament, to replace Prime Minister Abdel-Hamid Dbaiba.
In an interview with Express Online on Sunday, Bashaga discussed his hope to end the instability in the country, “which has made it the major route for terrorism and human traffickers taking illegal migrants into Europe, and on to the UK.
“Strong action will bring stability to Libya, and this will take organised criminal gangs head on. I very much hope the UK will engage with us and provide investment, training, and share technology with our security forces. This will keep both of our nations safer,” Bashaga noted.
Bashagha also supported plans by Britain to process asylum claims in Rwanda. “Controlling borders is a priority for all nations. Action taken which deters dangerous journeys will be beneficial to both the nation, and those attempting to enter.”
He also vowed to crack down on terrorism, having already made approaches to Turkey for cooperation on the issue. “I will intensify efforts to combat terrorism and organized crime, address the deteriorating security conditions, secure ports and borders; and strengthen cooperation between the various security and military institutions and judicial authorities.
“Stability, human rights, and peace in Libya can only benefit the UK. We have already seen how cooperation can succeed when in July 2019 we handed Hashem Abedi – involved in the Manchester bombing -over to British authorities. I was the Interior Minister, and during my tenure, our Courts agreed to extradite Abedi to the UK because he was a British citizen. It was the right thing to do,” Bashagha said.
“My focus will always be on peace, security, and the rule of law. I will always fight terrorism and extremism. The UK should engage with us, invest in Libya, and look to future trade and security cooperation.”
Outlining his priorities for a country that has been torn apart since the fall of the Gaddafi regime, he promised “complete transformation.”
“Libya is a wonderful country with so much potential and so much to offer the world. Yet it is being held back by internal strife, corruption, and if neglected can become a breeding ground for terrorism. I am absolutely committed to national reconciliation, reform of our economy, human rights for our people, and an end to corruption. I will restore stability in our country, and build a state based on justice, law, and equality. I will accelerate the transition to advanced technologies and advanced administrative systems, and this will pave the way for Libyan professionals to develop their capabilities and enhance their skills. I will create new employment opportunities which will help improve living standards. Libya will be totally transformed and finally allowed to fulfil its potential. I will ensure Libya gets the bright future it deserves,” he added.
Bashagha also stated that he hoped to visit the UK soon, “I am a great fan of the UK. I understand the reasons the British people decided to leave the EU. That was a matter for the people, and their verdict was decisive. I do hope that the UK and Libya can agree to new trade arrangements. Brexit has provided you with the opportunity to forge new relationships, and now, with Libya on the path to stability, our two nations must work closer together.”