US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, has stated that the efforts of the UN Mission in Libya, led by Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Hanna Tietie, complement the US initiative to unify Libya's institutions and form a single executive authority. He emphasized that parties obstructing these efforts will face severe consequences. Waltz made these remarks during a Security Council meeting on Libya.
Waltz highlighted that the US strongly supports the work of the UN Mission and its proposed roadmap, which is why the US voted in favor of extending the mission's mandate for another year under Resolution 2835. He noted that Libya has a historic opportunity to leverage its strategic location on the Mediterranean, access to European and African markets, and untapped commercial potential.
The US Ambassador stressed that a unified leadership, provision of security, and attraction of suitable investments can make Libya a thriving hub for international trade, energy, shipping, and finance. He added that unifying Libya's institutions can lead to improved living conditions, job opportunities, infrastructure development, and enabling young people to build their futures.
Waltz mentioned that the US has worked with Libyan parties over the past year to overcome divisions, including secret and public meetings between officials and military leaders, some under US sponsorship and others within the framework of UN-led dialogue tracks. He cited a meeting between Deputy Defense Minister of the "Interim Government of National Unity," Abdel Salam Al-Zubi, and Deputy Commander of the "General Command," Saddam Gaddafi.
However, Waltz accused some Libyan parties of seeking to protect their personal interests and wealth, perpetuating division. He warned that continued obstruction of the political transition could deprive Libyans of development and stability opportunities, pushing the country into another decade of violence, poverty, and lost opportunities.
Waltz emphasized that the US will not hesitate to impose consequences on those intentionally disrupting the US initiative, recalling that Resolution 2174 allows for sanctions against individuals obstructing Libya's political transition. He stressed that reunifying state institutions, including the army, security agencies, and judiciary, and forming a unified government are essential requirements for the success of the political process.
The Security Council has extended the mandate of the UN Mission in Libya for an additional 12 months under Resolution 2835, with 13 members voting in favor and Russia and Greece abstaining. Waltz expressed disappointment that the resolution included references to the "2030 Agenda" and Sustainable Development Goals, which he believes distract from the Security Council's core tasks.
Key points
- The US Ambassador to the UN warned that parties obstructing Libya's political transition will face severe consequences.
- The US supports the work of the UN Mission in Libya and its proposed roadmap.
- The Security Council has extended the mandate of the UN Mission in Libya for an additional 12 months.
