Libyan military leader Sadam Haftar has welcomed the UN Security Council's decision to extend the mandate of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL). Haftar, in a statement on his official Facebook page, described the move as a genuine opportunity to drive the country's political process towards a comprehensive national settlement. This development comes as Libya continues to grapple with years of division and political stalemate.
Haftar emphasized that the significance of the UN Security Council's decision lies in its potential to yield tangible results through a sincere national consensus and a clear roadmap leading to free and fair presidential and parliamentary elections. These elections, he stressed, are crucial for renewing legitimacy and addressing the aspirations of the Libyan people. The extension of the UNSMIL mandate is seen as a critical step towards achieving this goal.
The unification of the executive authority in Libya is a top national priority that cannot be postponed, Haftar warned. He argued that this step is essential for ending the institutional divide and addressing the concerns of Libyan citizens. Haftar cautioned against using this process as a means to prolong the transitional phases, emphasizing the need for a swift and effective resolution.
Haftar reaffirmed that Libya's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national decision-making independence are inviolable. He insisted that a political solution must originate solely from Libya's genuine national will, prioritizing the higher national interest over narrow calculations. This stance underscores the importance of a Libyan-led solution to the country's ongoing challenges.
The Libyan military leader expressed his readiness to continue constructive cooperation with the UN mission and friendly countries to support efforts aimed at bridging differences. He urged all Libyan parties to assume their national responsibilities seriously, emphasizing the need for collective action towards a stable and unified Libya.
Haftar's statement concluded with a commitment to uphold the national responsibility towards the Libyan people. He vowed to continue working diligently with patriotic individuals to build a strong, unified state governed by the rule of law, where rights are protected, and every citizen enjoys security, dignity, and a better future. This vision for Libya's future underscores the importance of national unity and cooperation.
The extension of the UNSMIL mandate offers a renewed opportunity for Libya to navigate its complex political landscape. The international community has welcomed the move, hoping it will pave the way for a lasting resolution to Libya's protracted crisis. As the country moves forward, the emphasis on national dialogue and consensus will be crucial in achieving a sustainable and inclusive political settlement.
Key points
- Sadam Haftar welcomes UN decision to extend Libya mission.
- UN mission extension seen as opportunity for national settlement.
- Libyan leader emphasizes need for unified executive authority.
