Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Luigi Di Maio met today the Vice President of the Presidential Council of the Government of National Accord of Libya, Ahmed Maitig at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Farnesina).
The meeting’s focus was the latest developments in Libya and in-depth exchange of views on the country’s prospects, with particular attention to bilateral issues.
Minister Di Maio confirmed Italy’s full support for the intra-Libyan dialogue processes under UN auspices, particularly for the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum, to hold elections in December 2021.
Minister Di Maio highlighted the need to accelerate the political dialogue through an inclusive and constructive approach by the actors involved to unify the country’s institutions.
Minister Di Maio stressed the urgency of appointing a new UN Special Envoy for Libya and reiterated the need to implement the ceasefire agreement without hesitation. The request is in line with what was decided in the 5+5 Joint Military Commission, starting with the reopening of the coastal road between Sirte and Misurata and all foreign fighters and mercenaries’ withdrawal. The head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also reiterated Italy’s firm opposition to any form of external interference in Libya.
Finally, Minister Di Maio called for the continuation of the reunification process of Libyan financial institutions. He also confirmed Italy’s interest in strengthening bilateral cooperation in the economic (through the Italian-Libyan Joint Economic Commission), security and migration fields, with the revision of the 2017 bilateral Memorandum.
