The UN's Special Representative to Libya, Hana Titihe, recently met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister, Aleksandr Sergeyevich Alimov, to discuss the latest developments in Libya's political, economic, and security landscape. This meeting comes as the UN mission in Libya prepares for a briefing to the UN Security Council on October 14. Titihe briefed Alimov on the current situation in Libya and the efforts to move the political process forward.
The discussions between Titihe and Alimov focused on the need to build on the agreement reached by the "mini-group" of Libyan leaders on August 30. This agreement aimed to reconstitute the High National Elections Commission and amend the electoral framework, with a commitment to hold elections within 24 months. The UN Security Council has welcomed the agreement and called on Libyan parties to support and implement it.
Titihe informed Alimov about the progress made in Libya's political process since the signing of the agreement. They discussed ways to maintain momentum and build on previous achievements. The UN mission is currently focused on converting the understandings reached into concrete steps that would pave the way for presidential and legislative elections. Additionally, the mission is working to address issues related to unifying state institutions.
The goal of holding successful and inclusive elections within 24 months is a key aspect of the UN's roadmap for Libya. This goal was reaffirmed in the latest agreement and is a major priority for Titihe's mission. The UN is also working to promote dialogue on issues such as governance, economy, security, and national reconciliation.
The upcoming briefing to the UN Security Council on October 14 will be an important moment for Titihe to assess progress and outline the next steps for the UN mission. The mission's current mandate is set to expire on October 31, and the Security Council is expected to renew it. Titihe will also conduct extensive consultations with Security Council members to discuss the elements that she believes are essential for the next phase.
Russia has expressed its support for Titihe and the UN mission in Libya. Deputy Foreign Minister Alimov emphasized the need to create the necessary conditions for a comprehensive and inclusive political solution, led and owned by the Libyans. This position aligns with Russia's previous statements on the importance of Libyan ownership and leadership in the political process.
The discussions between Titihe and Alimov take place against the backdrop of ongoing international efforts to address the Libyan crisis. The UN Security Council, as well as other international actors, are working to support the UN mission and promote a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The situation in Libya remains complex, with various international stakeholders holding different views on how to achieve a lasting political settlement.
Key points
- The UN's Special Representative to Libya, Hana Titihe, is working to build on the agreement reached by Libyan leaders to hold elections within 24 months.
- Titihe's meeting with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Aleksandr Alimov aimed to discuss the latest developments in Libya's political process and the extension of the UN mission's mandate.
- The UN Security Council is expected to renew the mandate of the UN mission in Libya, which is set to expire on October 31.
