The monitoring component of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) concluded a two-day meeting today with the Joint Military Committee and Libyan observers. They discussed the progress in the implementation of the Libyan-led and Libyan-owned ceasefire monitoring mechanism.
The meeting, held in the capital city of Tunis, focused on measures related to the withdrawal of mercenaries, foreign forces, and foreign fighters. The participants deliberated on strategies to ensure the effective removal of these elements, which have been a major impediment to achieving lasting peace and stability in Libya.
During the meeting, representatives from UNSMIL emphasised the importance of a comprehensive and inclusive approach to the implementation process. They stressed the need for all parties involved to abide by the ceasefire agreement and work towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
The discussions also addressed the challenges faced in monitoring and verifying the withdrawal of foreign actors. Technical mechanisms and procedures were explored to enhance transparency and accountability in the process. The aim is to establish a secure environment that fosters trust among all stakeholders and facilitates the return of Libya to a state of normalcy.
Furthermore, the meeting underscored the significance of coordination and cooperation between the international community, regional actors, and the Libyan authorities in achieving the desired outcomes. The participants recognised the complex nature of the situation and highlighted the need for sustained efforts to consolidate the gains made thus far.
In March, Libyan and international ceasefire monitors held a meeting in Tunis on Friday, in the presence of the United Nations (UN) Envoy to Libya, Abdoulaye Bathily.
The monitors discussed the withdrawal of mercenaries and foreign fighters, in order to “contribute to peace and stability in Libya,” Bathily tweeted.
“I commended the observers for their responsibility and respect for Libya’s sovereignty,” he added.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Moammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations, each backed by rogue militias and foreign governments.
The current stalemate grew out of the failure to hold elections in December 2021, and the refusal of Prime Minister Abdelhamid Dbaiba, who is leading the transitional government, to step down.
