China’s Permanent Representative to the UN Security Council, Ma Zhaoxu, said that dialogue and consultations are the only way to overcome the political crisis in Libya.
During his speech before the UN Security Council in a meeting on Libya, Ma Zhaoxu added that China supports Libyan-Tunisian and Libyan-Algerian coordination to protect borders, combat migration, and establish a free trade zone.
The Chinese diplomat pointed out that concerned parties in Libya are scheduled to meet soon in Cairo, hoping to resolve the current situation in support of the UN-led political process.
He reiterated China’s support for the African Union’s role in organizing a reconciliation conference for Libya.
Ma Zhaoxu emphasized the need for the 5+5 Military Committee to strengthen disarmament efforts.
He concluded by urging the international community to respect Libya’s sovereignty and implement the arms embargo.
Notably, Robert Wood, US Alternate Representative for Special Political Affairs at the UN Security Council, stated that the United Nations plays a crucial role in fostering a stable, secure, and sovereign future for Libya. He emphasised that the United States supports the prompt appointment of a new Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG).
Wood noted that the resignation of former SRSG Bathily highlights the challenges in achieving a political compromise that meets the aspirations of the Libyan people. He expressed appreciation for the interim leadership of Ms. Stephanie Khoury and others while the UN considers potential replacements.
The US diplomat pointed out that the United States commends the Deputy SRSG’s efforts to engage Libyans broadly. He affirmed that the US strongly supports UNSMIL’s efforts to move Libya toward long-overdue elections. He added that a unified international stance on the security, economic, political, and humanitarian fronts is essential for making concrete progress and creating opportunities for the Libyan people.
Wood mentioned that the United States was pleased with the renewal of the UN Libya Vessel Inspection Authority in May for another 12 months. He highlighted that this Authority deters potential sanctions violators and facilitates crucial information sharing about trafficking off the Libyan coast. He stressed that this resolution is particularly important given the rise in arms embargo violations, necessitating more interdictions.
