The spokesman for the European Union Commission, Peter Stano, stated that any initiative that is in accord with the Berlin Conference and aims at achieving peace in Libya constitutes a constructive step.
Stano stressed that there was no alternative to a comprehensive political solution, consistent with
the outcomes of the Berlin Conference and supported by the United Nations.
Simultaneously, the European Union emphasized the need for significant engagement by both parties to the conflict in the UN-mediated 5+5 military talks aimed at reaching a ceasefire.
The EU emphasized the humanitarian obligations of both warring parties to ensure the protection of civilians.
The EU also reviewed Operation IRINI and its mandate in the enforcement of the UN arms embargo on Libya.
It said the Operation is also playing a leading role in curbing illicit oil shipments from Libya.
A recent attempt at loading an illegal shipment of oil was thwarted by a vessel participating in the EU mission.
When asked about Egypt’s Cairo Declaration to address the Libyan crisis, Stano said that
the EU’s position would not change.
“We have repeatedly urged all parties involved in the conflict to agree to a ceasefire immediately. They must return to the negotiating table because there is no military solution”.