Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela, during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Friday, called for the immediate removal of all foreign forces, fighters, and mercenaries from Libya.
He stressed that the resolution of Libya’s institutional crisis is crucial not only for the Libyan people but for the stability of the wider region.
Abela highlighted that Malta, positioned as a bridge between Europe and North Africa, holds a unique responsibility in helping facilitate peace and stability in its neighbouring countries.
He emphasised that Malta, with its neutral status, aims to act as an “honest broker” by hosting peace talks and supporting dialogue to resolve conflicts.
During his address, Abela acknowledged the global focus on the Israel-Gaza conflict but urged the international community not to overlook other conflicts, including in Libya, Sudan, Yemen, Syria, and Ukraine.
He stressed that Libya’s future stability is vital for addressing the ongoing migration crisis in the Mediterranean, which poses significant risks to human lives.
Abela reiterated that any sustainable solution for Libya must be led and owned by the Libyan people themselves.
He also underlined the need for full enforcement of the Libyan arms embargo, in line with relevant Security Council resolutions, to ensure the country’s path toward peace and stability.