On Wednesday, the UN Envoy to Libya, Abdoulaye Bathily met with Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al-Khulaifi, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Qatar.
The two sides discussed the latest developments in Libya, particularly the situation in Derna following the recent deadly floods.
According to the Qatar News Agency (QNA), the meeting discussed Qatar’s efforts to assist those affected by the disaster, through an airlift operation to Benghazi’s Benina International Airport
The discussions also included Qatar’s support for the UN Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), aiming to enhance its ability to carry out its tasks effectively.
Al-Khulaifi reaffirmed his steadfast commitment to supporting the unity and stability of Libya, and realising the aspirations of its people for stability and development. He also expressed full support for the Libyan political process, relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions, and all peaceful solutions that preserve Libya’s sovereignty.
Notably, the United Arab Emirates has implemented an airlift operation involving 37 aircraft, carrying relief supplies destined for the cities of eastern Libya that were struck by storm Daniel on 10 September.
The airlift delivered 815 tons of food, shelter materials, medical aid, and essential supplies to the worst-hit areas. This assistance aims to help approximately 7,342 families, affected by the disaster.
From the outset of the catastrophe, the UAE mobilised significant resources, including rescue teams and relief aid to assist Libya, offering condolences to the victims’ families.
On 11 September, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, issued directives to send urgent humanitarian aid and search-and-rescue teams to Libya to address the consequences of severe flooding caused by heavy rains in eastern Libyan cities.
President bin Zayed expressed his condolences to Libya’s government and people, praying for the victims and their families and wishing a speedy recovery for the injured.
Bin Zayed made phone calls to Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army (LNA) Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, and Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity (GNU) Abdel-Hamid Dbaiba, extending condolences for the flood victims.
Haftar and Dbaiba expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the support. They also lauded the UAE’s consistent and genuine brotherly stances towards the Libyan people, under various circumstances.