Libyan General Khalid Hifter, the Chief of General Staff, has welcomed the UN Security Council's decision to extend the mandate of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya. He believes this move presents a vital opportunity to advance the country's stalled political process. According to Hifter, the extension aims to bring an end to years of division and political deadlock, ultimately paving the way for the construction of a stable state with unified and effective institutions.
The UN Security Council's decision to extend the mission's mandate is seen as a crucial step towards achieving national reconciliation in Libya. Hifter emphasized that the real significance of this extension lies in its potential to yield tangible and realistic outcomes. He stressed that it is high time for Libya to overcome its current impasse and move towards a genuine national consensus. This consensus, he believes, should be based on a clear and well-defined roadmap with specific deadlines.
General Hifter highlighted the importance of establishing a unified executive authority in Libya, which he considers a top national priority. He argued that continued division of power has significantly weakened state institutions and hindered the daily lives of citizens. Hifter called for this unification to be a genuine starting point for ending the transitional phase and creating suitable conditions for elections, rather than a means of prolonging division in new forms.
The Libyan General Staff chief emphasized that the country's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence of national decision-making remain uncompromisable constants. He urged all Libyan parties to assume their historical and national responsibilities and approach the current phase with utmost seriousness. Hifter expressed willingness to cooperate with the UN mission and friendly countries to support lasting security and stability in Libya.
General Hifter's statement reflects the hopes of many Libyans who yearn for stability and an end to the country's protracted crisis. The extension of the UN mission's mandate offers a glimmer of hope for the resumption of stalled political efforts. However, the success of this endeavor depends on the ability of Libyan parties to work together and reach a genuine consensus.
The UN mission in Libya has been working to support the country's transition to stability and democracy since 2011. The mission's extension is seen as a recognition of the challenges that still lie ahead. General Hifter's call for a unified executive authority and free elections resonates with the aspirations of many Libyans who seek a better future for their country.
As Libya looks to the future, General Hifter's statement serves as a reminder of the long road to recovery and stability. The country's path forward will require continued international support, as well as a sustained commitment from Libyan parties to work towards national reconciliation and unity. The extension of the UN mission's mandate provides a vital opportunity for Libya to move towards a more stable and democratic future.
Key points
- General Khalid Hifter welcomes the UN Security Council's decision to extend the mandate of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya.
