The EU urged Libyan leaders to engage in the talks held by the UN Envoy, Abdoulaye Bathily to meet the aspirations of the Libyan people.
In a statement on Libya’s Independence Day, the EU acknowledged the legitimate aspirations of the Libyan people to express their opinions through elections.
The statement also urged Libyan leaders to “respect the people’s right to legitimate and unified institutions.”
The EU said it supports the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ appeal for all major parties to commit to goodwill and a spirit of reconciliation, in order to pave the way for fair, transparent, and comprehensive elections.
Notably, the US Embassy in Libya has encouraged Libyans to heed the invitation from Bathily for talks, stressing the importance of approaching discussions with goodwill.
The Embassy called for “necessary concessions, even if challenging, to achieve consensus and make progress in the political process.”
In a congratulatory message on Libya’s 72nd Independence Day, it expressed best wishes to the Libyan people, acknowledging the country’s transition from decades of dictatorship towards a brighter future.
Expressing regret over the two-year delay in the scheduled 24 December 2021 elections, the United States shared the frustration of Libyans.
It pointed out to the “inability of key Libyan actors to meet popular demands and facilitate free and fair elections that grant the entire population the right to choose their leaders.”
The US emphasised the unity displayed in solidarity, urging Libyan leaders to set aside differences for the nation’s greater good. It also conveyed a belief that the time has come for Libyan stakeholders to put aside disputes, come together for the country’s sake, and fulfil their responsibilities toward the Libyan people, ensuring long-term stability, security, and prosperity.