UNSC Briefing on UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL)

(21 May 2021; 1000 hrs)

Statement by Ambassador T.S. Tirumurti

Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations

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Mr. President,

I would like to thank Special Envoy Mr. Jan Kubis for his briefing to the Council. I also welcome H.E. Mr. Taher M. T. Elsonni, the Ambassador of Libya to the meeting.

We are happy to note that more than a decade since the start of the conflict in Libya, there is now reason for cautious optimism. The Government of National Unity charged with the conduct of elections on 24 December is moving ahead with purpose, and the ceasefire agreement is largely holding. However, as we heard from the Special Envoy, despite the progress, there are still causes for concern, and the possibility of spoilers hindering the political process.

Mr. President,

It is incumbent upon the international community, and this Council in particular, to provide support to Libya as it embarks on its journey towards peace and stability. In this regard, I would like to emphasis the following points:

One, the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Libya needs to be safeguarded. The peace process must be fully Libyan-led and Libyan-owned with no imposition or external interference.

Two, it is imperative that elections are held smoothly on 24 December 2021 in a free and fair manner. For this, the Government of National Unity needs to provide the necessary administrative support, including provision of adequate budget, and the House of Representatives needs to clarify the constitutional and legal basis for elections and then enact legislation, as necessary, by 1 July 2021.

Three, sustainable peace requires an inclusive and comprehensive national reconciliation process. We hope that all parties concerned would engage sincerely in this endeavour. We also urge the international community to support such a process.

Four, it is a matter of concern that provisions of the Ceasefire Agreement continue to be violated, in particular those relating to the withdrawal of foreign fighters and mercenaries. The continued presence of foreign fighters poses a serious threat not only to Libya but also to its neighbours and the region as a whole. It is imperative that the Coastal Road is opened at the earliest as an important element of the ceasefire agreement. Besides integrating Libya, this will also be a visible symbol of the commitment of the global community to the ceasefire agreement and the peace process.  We look forward to an early deployment of the UNSMIL ceasefire monitoring component in Libya, as approved by the Security Council through its resolution 2570 (2021).

Five, it is important to plan for the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of armed groups and non-state armed actors. We appreciate the fact that UNSMIL is prepared to render assistance to Libya in this process.

Six, we must ensure that terrorist forces and organisations are not allowed to thrive in Libya since this may lead to a cascading effect throughout the region. The international community must speak in one voice against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

Mr. President,

India has traditionally enjoyed close and mutually beneficial bilateral ties with Libya reinforced by close business and other links. India remains committed to supporting Libya and the Libyan people in their endeavor to bring about lasting peace in the country. To this end, we look forward to working with the Government of National Unity for providing capacity building and training assistance in mutually identified areas.

I thank you Mr. President.