Joint statement on Libya by western countries
Joint Statement on Libya by France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK, and the US. Issued on 18 September.
The Governments of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States welcome the current round of the UN political dialogue in Skhirat, Morocco and reiterate our full support for the UN process led by Special Representative of the Secretary General Bernardino Leon. We strongly encourage all parties to continue to participate constructively in the talks at this critical stage of negotiations, in order to reach a comprehensive agreement. This includes reaching a conclusive decision on a package including the candidates for the Government of National Accord before 20th September, to be endorsed by the parties before the end of September, so that the latter may be seated within the shortest delay (or no later than 21st October), as expected by all Libyans.
The international community strongly condemns any kind of violence and of intimidation against any party involved in the dialogue process. Those who are aiming to derail the process shall be held accountable.
Time is running out for Libya to address its critical humanitarian, economic, and security challenges, including the spread of Da’esh/ISIL-aligned groups and of criminal organizations engaged in smuggling and trafficking in persons. Recognizing upcoming Eid celebrations, we believe it is essential that all parties in the process approve a final agreement and the leaders for the new Government of National Accord before the end of September.
The Governments of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States reaffirm their support for a united, sovereign, and independent Libya. The international community stands ready to provide significant economic and security assistance to a united Libya as soon as the new government is agreed. It is clear that we are going towards a process of reconciliation in Libya, and no party should fear it.