Joint Statement on Libya by the Governments of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States

WASHINGTON, 1 July. - (ANA) - The Governments of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States, issued a joint statement expressing their deep concern about the ongoing violence within Libya, and the expansion of terrorism in Libya. They recognize that the Libyan people want peace and stability and welcome the recent round of talks of the UN political dialogue in Skhirat, Morocco. They also reiterate their full support to the UN Special Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG) Bernardino Léon and urge all Libyan parties to sign in the coming days the political agreement presented by the UN. They consider this document a thoughtful, well-balanced basis for agreement that meets the urgent expectations of Libyan people and secures the unity of Libya. They also reiterate that there is no military solution to this crisis and we underline that the economic and humanitarian situation is worsening every day. They stand ready to support the implementation of this agreement in order to help ensure that a Government of National Accord and all the new institutions function effectively.
They welcome the peace initiatives developing in parts of Libya, particularly in the West, including local-level ceasefires, prisoner exchanges, and the return of internally displaced persons. These are important developments, and a powerful example of the determination of the Libyan people to find peaceful solutions to the ongoing insecurity. Alongside the UN process, these initiatives need the support of all Libyans throughout that country. We strongly condemn all attempts to undermine UN process or local peace initiatives, in particular through the threat of violence.
They call on all Libyan decision makers to show in this crucial moment responsibility, leadership and courage. The international community stands ready to provide significant humanitarian, economic and security assistance to a united Libya as soon as the new government is agreed. Equally, the international community stands ready to hold accountable through sanctions those who threaten Libya’s peace, stability and security, concludes the statement.- (ANA)

AB/ANA/ 1 July 2015 - - -