UNSC briefing/consultation on United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL)

[16 March 2022; 1000 hours EDT/1930 hrs IST]

Mr. President,

At the outset, I would like to thank the Under Secretary General (USG) Rosemary DiCarlo for her briefing. I also thank Dr. Jazia Gebril for her remarks, and welcome the presence of the Permanent Representative of Libya to this meeting.

2. We have noted with concern the recent developments and political disagreements in Libya. We hope that all outstanding political issues could be resolved peacefully by the parties concerned, keeping the larger interests of the Libyan people in mind. In this regard, we once again reiterate the imperative for holding the Presidential and Parliamentary elections at the earliest. We have seen the enthusiasm among the Libyan people who have registered in large numbers to vote.

3. Holding of the elections in a timely manner would be necessary to carry forward the momentum generated by signing of Ceasefire Agreement in October 2020. In this regard, we appreciate the efforts of the UN to form a Joint Committee of representatives from the House of Representatives and the High Council of State to decide on the constitutional basis for holding elections.

4. We have also noted, including from the briefing of the USG, that security challenges remain serious in Libya, including reported mobilization of armed groups in and around Tripoli. There has been resurgence in terrorist activity, and continued violations of arms embargo are equally alarming.

Mr. President,

5. The priority right now must be to ensure that elections are held at the earliest in a free, fair, inclusive, and credible manner. We hope that all parties in Libya can unite around this common purpose. We also call on the Security Council and the international community to support the Libyan people in this endeavour. There should be a clear message against violence of all forms that could undermine the progress achieved since 2020.

6. The sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of Libya needs to be safeguarded. The political process must be fully Libyan-led and Libyan-owned with no imposition or external interference. We also stress on the need for concrete progress in the full and complete withdrawal of foreign forces and mercenaries. We need to plan for the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of armed groups and non-state armed actors.

7. It is also important for the international community to focus its attention on the threat of terrorism in Africa, particularly in the Sahel region. We must ensure that terrorist groups and affiliated entities are not allowed to operate unchallenged in Libya. The report of the Secretary General has highlighted the presence of training camps of the ISIL and its affiliates in southern Libya. It is critical for the Security Council to focus and act upon the growing threat of terrorism in Africa.

8. India has traditionally enjoyed close and mutually beneficial bilateral ties with Libyan people, and we remain committed to supporting Libya and the Libyan people in their endeavour to bring about lasting peace and stability. I thank you, Mr. President.

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