Mohamed Ali Al-Shamsi, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ambassador to Libya, engaged in discussions with Abdoulaye Bathily, the United Nations (UN) envoy to Libya, focusing on the current state of affairs in Libya and exploring ways to enhance cooperation.
The discussions, which took place on Sunday in Tunisia, revolved around the ongoing political, social, and security challenges in Libya and the potential avenues for collaboration between the UAE and the UN to address these issues.
Key topics included the latest developments in Libya and the shared commitment of both representatives to aid in Libya’s path towards peace, stability, and prosperity. The importance of international cooperation and concerted efforts to resolve the conflict and promote inclusive dialogue among Libyan parties was emphasized.
Additionally, the meeting touched on recent initiatives aimed at the reconstruction and development of Derna, including a series of projects signed last month between the Executive Director of the Derna Reconstruction Fund and the Emirati company Global Contracting. These projects aim to improve infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and coastal protection in Derna and surrounding areas.
Since the 2011 uprising, Libya has faced division and instability, impacting its oil-dependent economy and leading to humanitarian challenges. The delay in planned elections, initially set for December 2021, has further complicated the situation, raising concerns over the political transition.
Despite a ceasefire, the security situation remains precarious with the ongoing presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. Efforts towards military unification and the withdrawal of foreign forces are seen as essential steps towards stabilization.