Libyan Presidential Council head Mohamed al-Menfi has announced the formation of a national reconciliation committee aimed at ending the country's protracted crisis. Speaking at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, al-Menfi emphasized that Libya can no longer afford to merely "manage the crisis," but rather requires a concerted effort to bring it to an end and establish a unified state based on the will of the people.
Al-Menfi stressed that Libya has paid a heavy price due to the transformation of regional and international balances into conflicts on its territory. He reiterated his country's rejection of forced changes in influence, axes, or allegiance, and expressed Libya's desire to build close relationships with its Arab neighbors and restore its natural role.
The Libyan Presidential Council head also highlighted the importance of establishing a balanced strategic partnership with the Mediterranean and international communities based on mutual respect, shared interests, and non-interference in internal affairs. He emphasized that the concept of national sovereignty goes beyond rhetoric to protecting the rights and dignity of Libyan citizens.
Al-Menfi welcomed international and regional efforts to end the political and institutional divisions in Libya, appreciating the role of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya. He emphasized that any sustainable political path must not compromise the state's founding principles, including respect for legitimacy and constitutional and legal references.
Al-Menfi pointed out that "national ownership" of the solution is a "red line" that cannot be compromised, and that it is essential to ensure equal opportunities for all parties and reject the use of force or influence. He stressed the importance of adhering to full transparency in understandings and agreements.
On the practical level, al-Menfi announced the start of work on forming a national reconciliation committee to build trust, based on local and national initiatives. The committee aims to pre-empt conflicts, contain escalation, and prevent its recurrence, thereby supporting comprehensive reconciliation efforts and creating a secure environment for the political process and upcoming elections.
Libya has also announced its candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2028-2029 period, under the slogan "Devoting Justice for Security and Peace, Libya a Bridge between Nations." Al-Menfi stated that this candidacy represents a national will to restore Libya's regional and international role as a force for stability and depth for security and development.
Key points
- The committee aims to pre-empt conflicts, contain escalation, and prevent its recurrence.
- Libya has announced its candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2028-2029 period.
- Al-Menfi emphasized that Libya can no longer afford to merely "manage the crisis," but rather requires a concerted effort to bring it to an end.
