UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed that the position of the United Nations was very clear on Libya and what was truly needed is dialogue between Libyans.
In an interview with ‘BBC Arabic’ news, Guterres pointed out that many countries had interfered in Libya and had contributed to creating a proxy war. He called for a Libyan-led solution, with its first condition being a ceasefire.
He also added that the UN was able to bring together five military officials affiliated with the Government of National Accord (GNA) and five military officials of the Libyan National Army (LNA) who have agreed on outlines for a ceasefire.
“It is necessary for those who intervened among the Libyans to respect that the solution be Libyan – Libyan and accept that the interests of the Libyans cannot be subject to the interests of any foreign power” Guterres stressed.
On the appointment of a new envoy to succeed Ghassan Salameh, Guterres said that the Security Council had rejected two proposals, adding “we need to appoint a new UN envoy to Libya as quickly as possible in order to play an active role to enhance opportunities for dialogue”.
The UN Secretary-General emphasized that Deputy head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) Stephanie Williams was deeply involved in efforts for crafting a peace process.
“It is important that there be authority and credibility emanating from an international envoy accepted by the Security Council and appointed by myself. I hope that will happen soon” Guterres added.