The French Ambassador to Libya, Mostafa Mihraje, met with National Security Advisor Ibrahim Boshnaf in Benghazi for a productive discussion on the political process and the security situation in Libya and its southern neighboring countries.
Both parties agreed on the importance of Libya regaining stability and the necessity of relaunching the political process to ensure sustainable peace and security in the region.
Last month, the French Permanent Representative at the United Nations Security Council Nicolas de Rivière voiced his country’s strong support for a UN-led initiative encouraging dialogue among all Libyan parties, aimed at establishing a unified government that would lead to national elections.
Addressing the UN Security Council, de Rivière emphasized the significance of a political process in Libya that respects human rights and the rule of law.
The French diplomat stressed the necessity for the Office of the Prosecutor at the International Criminal Court (ICC) to operate without hindrance, underscoring the importance of international law in resolving Libyan issues. He pointed out that effective collaboration between Libyan authorities and the ICC is essential for addressing impunity for crimes committed within the country.
Moreover, tackling human trafficking remains a top priority for France, with the French representative advocating for comprehensive investigations into related crimes to protect and provide justice for victims.
Libya has faced ongoing conflict and instability since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, resulting in a split between rival governments in the east and the west, supported by various international stakeholders and armed groups. France’s engagement in promoting a peaceful resolution through dialogue is part of a larger international effort to restore stability and governance in Libya. The French initiative aligns with global strategies aimed at enabling Libya to progress toward a democratic governance system where elections are conducted fairly and lawfully.
This diplomatic push by France is pivotal for the stability of North Africa, as a secure Libya could positively impact security and migration across the Mediterranean region. By advocating for cooperation with the ICC and focusing on human rights, France reinforces the international commitment to resolving Libya’s political challenges and addressing the humanitarian crises that have arisen from the nation’s prolonged conflict.
