The French Embassy in Libya has released details regarding a meeting between French Ambassador Mostafa Mihraje and the Head of the Libyan Presidential Council, Mohamed Al-Mnifi.
According to the embassy’s statement, the discussion focused on the ongoing crisis at the Central Bank of Libya and the security tensions amid persistent political deadlock.
“The statement concluded with a note that France supports the mediation efforts of the United Nations mission in Libya to resolve the Central Bank crisis,” the embassy noted.
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.