Jeremy Berndt, the US Embassy in Libya’s Chargé d’Affaires, and the EU Special Envoy for Libya Nicola Orlando reaffirmed the European Union and the United States’ shared commitment to fostering a stable, united, prosperous Libya.
Orlando praised the United States for its dedication to addressing economic challenges in Libya and reiterated the EU’s determination to collaborate to push forward the political process closely.
During a significant meeting in Tunis, they highlighted the ongoing international efforts to ensure that Libya achieves lasting peace and stability.
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 oil production and prices fluctuations, 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.
