Libyan Foreign Minister Abdulhadi Al-Hwaij has expressed Libya’s hope that the African Union will take on a more significant role in resolving the ongoing crisis in the country. He also emphasized the importance of increasing the frequency of visits by African leaders to Libya.
During a meeting with Jean-Claude Gakosso, the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Congo-Brazzaville, who is currently visiting Libya, Al-Hwaij stated, “I hope this visit will yield positive outcomes, particularly in the area of national reconciliation.”
Al-Hwaij praised the efforts of the African Union, especially the High-Level Committee on Libya, which is chaired by the President of the Republic of Congo, Denis Sassou Nguesso.
For his part, Gakosso affirmed that he would convey Libya’s concerns, particularly regarding national reconciliation and assistance in conducting elections, to President Denis Sassou Nguesso.
The Congolese Foreign Minister also expressed his satisfaction with the positive developments he observed during his previous visits to Libya.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
