The United Arab Emirates (UAE) expressed its support for the outcomes of a recent meeting between Libyan factions held in Cairo, Egypt. The dialogue, hosted by the Arab League, yielded a critical agreement: the establishment of a body to oversee upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections in Libya.
This development is a significant step towards restoring stability in the war-torn nation, which has been grappling with internal conflict since 2011. The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) released a statement commending the Arab League's efforts in facilitating these discussions and acknowledged the importance of the agreements reached in achieving a political resolution in Libya.
The MoFA expressed optimism that the consensus on election supervision would pave the way for enhanced security and stability within the country. This, in turn, would bolster the ongoing efforts of the United Nations mission in Libya (UNSMIL). The statement reiterated the UAE's unwavering commitment to finding a solution to the Libyan conflict. The UAE has consistently advocated for a Libyan-led political process that adheres to the established roadmap, adheres to UN Security Council resolutions, and aligns with the outcomes of the UN-backed political dialogue.
The Libyan meeting, which took place on March 14, 2024, addressed a crucial hurdle on the path to national elections. The participants, representing various Libyan groups, agreed on the formation of a joint committee responsible for overseeing the electoral process. This committee will play a pivotal role in ensuring the legitimacy and transparency of the upcoming polls, a critical step towards establishing a unified and representative government.
Beyond the issue of elections, the Libyan dialogue in Cairo reaffirmed Libya's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. This consensus holds significant weight in the context of ongoing foreign interference in Libyan affairs. The UAE's endorsement of this principle underscores its support for a self-determined future for Libya, free from external influence.
The progress achieved in Cairo offers a glimmer of hope for Libya's future. The successful conduct of free and fair elections, overseen by a neutral body, could be a turning point in the nation's recovery. The international community, including the UAE, will be closely monitoring the situation in Libya, offering continued support for a peaceful and democratic transition.