YouSaid · the spoken record

Kobler

lines on the record: 436
first: 2011-12-06
most recent: 2017-06-07
sittings or episodes: 22
sources: un-security-council

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“Agila Saleh Essa Gwaider, urging him to convene a meeting of the House of Representatives and vote, and thereafter endorse the Government of National Accord presented by the Presidency Council. Should this be difficult, I asked President Gwaider to tell us why, so that we could be helpful and address the open questions within the House of Representatives. This being done, the Libyan Political Agreement will be owned by the institutions that it creates: the House of Representative and the State Council. All outstanding questions, including the supreme commandership and the chain of command of the Libyan Army, can be addressed by the process provided for by the Libyan Political Agreement. However, a path forward should consist of inclusive, peaceful dialogue and never military escalation.”
2016-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7827 (2016) · source
“That said, the Libyan Political Agreement has not fulfilled expectations. its implementation has stalled. However its articles are not set in stone. The Libyan Political Agreement even foresees a mechanism for change, should the political circumstances demand. Libya must move forward. I would like to propose six points. First, the outstanding political questions must be tackled. I have convened the Libyan political dialogue multiple times. In November, the Libyan political dialogue called on the House of Representatives to amend the Constitutional Declaration to incorporate the Libyan Political Agreement. I conveyed this message to the House of Representatives President, Mr.”
2016-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7827 (2016) · source
“Access to funds is the lifeline of the Presidency Council. Libya's financial reserves have shrunk from $108 billion in 2013 to a mere $45 billion. The country will face an economic meltdown unless something changes. People in Libya are rightly frustrated at the slow pace of progress. More containment is not a recipe for Libya in 2017. As many say, the mistake was to leave Libya alone after 2011. Six years later, we must engage more with our Libyan partners. Together, we must work so that root questions are firmly and decisively addressed. The situation requires Antibiotics, not aspirin. I am convinced that the Libyan Political Agreement remains the one and only viable framework. It is without alternatives. Until today, even the most vociferous critics of the Agreement acknowledge that it is the only workable framework.”
2016-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7827 (2016) · source
“The fundamentals of the Libyan economy also need to be tackled as a matter of urgency. Although the increase in oil production provides some relief, Libya runs a budget deficit of around 70 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) - the largest budget deficit compared to GDP in the world. Still, the Presidency Council has challenges utilizing funds. Relations between the Central Bank and the Presidency Council are strained. While the some opponents of the Libyan Political Agreement in Tripoli seem to have unrestricted access to huge sums of money, the Presidency Council and the Central Bank of Libya are still struggling to find a way to disburse money. I urge the Central Bank of Libya to save the Government of National Accord and other institutions by rapidly disbursing money in an orderly way and with a minimum of bureaucracy.”
2016-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7827 (2016) · source
“I am very concerned and take this opportunity to urge and call on forces engaged in the violence there to immediately stop fighting and terrorizing the population, and I call for wisdom to prevail. The deadly clashes were triggered by the murder of the religious scholar Sheikh Nader Al-Omrani, whom I met a few months ago. We recently also saw clashes in Sabha, in the south, where 23 persons were killed. These events are symptoms of the lack of security and underlying tensions among communities. Weapon deliveries are still going on, and they appear in violation of the weapons embargo imposed by the Security Council and sometimes end up in the hands of terrorist groups throughout the region. Until Libya has a reliable and coherent security apparatus, the arms embargo must remain in force and enforced.”
2016-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7827 (2016) · source
“Twice, proposed Government of National Accord lists have been rejected by the House of Representatives. Cooperation within and between many of the institutions remains gridlocked. Pretender Governments compete for power. The Interim Government in Bayda exists in parallel to the Government of National Accord. The Government of National Salvation has also tried make a comeback in recent weeks, creating a tense stand-off between rival armed groups in Tripoli. The fragmented security situation allows criminal and terrorist networks to flourish. Kidnappings, extortion, and theft occur daily. Over the last days, we have seen the most violent clashes in Tripoli since 2014 between armed groups competing for power and territory.”
2016-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7827 (2016) · source
“The Islamic State has shrunk from occupying the entirety of Sirte to now just few buildings. Although it continues to be a threat, the days of the Islamic State controlling territory in Libya are over, while in Benghazi the Libyan National Army continues to make progress, taking area after area. I would like to pay tribute today once again to all the sons of Libya who have sacrificed their lives for this common cause. I would also like to commemorate the many civilians who have died in the course of these clashes. My second point is that while these developments are encouraging, there is much to be concerned about. The institutions of the Libyan Political Agreement still work far below expectations. Although the Presidency Council resides in Tripoli, the Government of National Accord has limited authority.”
2016-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7827 (2016) · source
“Following economic talks in London and Rome, the Presidency Council now meets regularly with financial institutions to address Libya's economic troubles. Oil production has increased significantly, tripling from August to almost 600,000 barrels a day. I am thankful for the fact that the international community is clear and in consensus. It supports the Presidency Council and the Libyan Political Agreement. In that regard, the African Union, the League of Arab States and the United Nations have formed a troika to work together and provide stronger support. Ambassadors are submitting their credentials to the Presidency Council, and Member States are looking to return to Tripoli. Advances against terrorism have been made in both the east and the west.”
2016-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7827 (2016) · source
“First, I would like to congratulate Spain on its accession to the presidency of the Security Council for December. Members of the Council have before them the latest report of the Secretary-General on the activities of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (8/2016/1011). I would like to update members on developments in the situation. (spoke in English) The first anniversary of the signing of the Libyan Political Agreement on 17 December is fast approaching. It is time to take stock. I will concentrate my remarks on the following three points. First, what has been achieved so far? Secondly, what are the challenges? Thirdly, what is the outlook for Libya in 2017? With respect to my first point, the Presidency Council has been operating for almost nine months from Tripoli.”
2016-12-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7827 (2016) · source
“Finally, allow me to say thank you to a dear colleague who is leaving the Mission, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General Ali Al-Za'tari, for his distinguished service as the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Libya. I always appreciated his insightful analysis and his consistent and resolute advocacy for protecting the weak and vulnerable in Libyan society. I wish him the best of luck in facing the extremely difficult challenges as part of his new duties as Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Syria. I look forward to the ministerial meeting on Libya to be held on 22 September on the margins of the General Assembly to demonstrate the cohesion and determination of the international community in helping Libyans to consolidate the gains achieved so far, but also to address the burning questions.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“The fundamentals of the economy need to be urgently addressed. Libya will not be able to rely for long on its foreign reserves. The war economy must give way to the economy of peace. Oil production must resume, and expenditure must be commensurate with the needs of the country. To do so, it is imperative that the pipelines open, Libyan financial institutions become unified and a national budget be approved. Libya is at a crossroads. While political space has opened and progress is being made in the fight against terrorism, the political divisions underlying the conflict are deepening. Today more than ever, strong action is needed to convince Libyan stakeholders to build institutions that are open, participatory and able to address the needs of all of its citizens.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“I come to my last and often neglected point: the economic situation. All our efforts can succeed only if the Libyans address the country's growing economic crisis. Libya is a resource-rich country, but its economy is on the road to collapse. Oil production is at its lowest point ever, with only about 200,000 barrels per day compared with 1.4 million barrels even after the revolution. Government spending on salaries and subsidies is at 93 per cent of its total budget, and 1.6 million out of 6 million Libyans - more than one person per family - are on the payroll of the Central Bank. The country is running a 75 per cent budget deficit. All this has resulted in the imposition of strict capital controls and a lack of liquidity. Libyans are frustrated that they cannot access their own money and that their currency is rapidly losing its value.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“Seventy per cent of the population is under the age of 35, and this key part of society must be given a voice and be able to shape Libya's future. Brain drain is a serious problem for Libya. One inspiring example of reconciliation I would like to mention is the agreement signed between the representatives of the cities of Misrata and Tawergha on 31 August, two weeks ago. The agreement is the product of months of courageous and determined efforts by the two parties, facilitated by our Human Rights Division, and I want to congratulate all involved. I am happy that after many years, the internally displaced will finally be able to start returning to their homes before the end of the year. This agreement should give hope to all 435,000 internally displaced people in the country.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“Iurge all political actors to truly show statesmanship, leadership and cohesion for the sake of Libyan men, women and children, who just want to have their lives back. I come to my third point: the question of national reconciliation. On 31 August, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya kick-started a round of discussions with Libyan and international experts on national reconciliation. This is but the small first step of a process leading towards healing the wounds of the past. We should help the Libyans find in themselves the willingness to forgive and overcome the past, and to build a new future together. No reconciliation will succeed if the next generation does not actively participate.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“I welcome the intention of the Presidency Council to consult with the main Libyan stakeholders, and I reiterate my request to reserve 30 per cent of the posts for women. Secondly, the House of Representatives should meet with all of its members in an atmosphere free of intimidation to discuss the constitutional amendment and the endorsement of the Government of National Accord. I will continue to encourage all members of the House of Representatives, including the boycotters, to join the sessions. I also call for the presence of Libyan and international observers during these crucial sessions, let us say from the League of Arab States and others, during these crucial sessions of the House of Representatives.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“Here I would like to thank Member States for their unity and support for the Libyan Political Agreement, in particular their strong support for the Presidency Council. It is, however, vital that this political support also be reflected by practice on the ground by all in Libya and outside. Parallel Libyan institutions not coming under the Government of National Accord shall not be supported; red carpets should not be rolled out for them. During the most recent meeting of the Libyan Political Dialogue last week, on 5 and 6 September, the following lines were discussed and a political way forward was suggested. First, the Presidency Council should seize the opportunity created by the return of the two boycotting members to become an effective institution. All members should now agree on a revised list of Government ministers.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“Nevertheless, this decision is a new opening for the Presidency Council to solicit the endorsement of a unity Government. Efforts must now be exerted to ensure that the House of Representatives and the Presidency Council work together towards meeting this important milestone. In this regard, the role of the Libyan Political Dialogue has remained relevant. Since my most recent report to the Council, I have convened the Libyan Political Dialogue twice to create additional political space and leverage so as to forge a way through the political impasse. Although there are differences of opinion on the Libyan Political Agreement, even critics and opponents recognize its framework and its value. It remains the only way forward in Libya's transition. There is no alternative.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“On 5 August, we convened the first high-level security meeting of more than 50 key Libyan security actors to discuss proposals for improving security in Tripoli and in the country. However, further progress will be possible only if all Libyan security actors from east, west and south agree on a unified chain of command, with the Presidency Council as the Supreme Commander of the Libyan army. This requires the active engagement and commitment of the international community. Let me now come to my second point: the political developments. The formation of an effective Government of National Accord is critical for the transition period in Libya. After months of political stalemate, the House of Representatives on 22 August decided to reject the current Government of National Accord.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“Three thousand migrants drowned in the Mediterranean, and many more thousands died in the desert on their way. This senseless loss of so many human lives is simply unacceptable. Both the fight against terrorism and the flow of migrants are symptoms of Libya's lack of unified and effective security institutions: institutions to secure Libya's borders, institutions to control the circulation of weapons, and institutions to break the criminal networks that prey on the vulnerable. The security situation in Tripoli is still very fragile. In this context, I welcome the nomination of the commanders of the Presidential Guard. This is the first step towards bringing the new Libyan security units under the full authority of the Presidency Council.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“I would also like to thank those Member States that provided medical support, either in their territories or inside Libya. The fight against ISIS is a Libyan-led fight, but the defeat of ISIS in Libya benefits the entire region. Now civilian and military authority needs to be established in Sirte and security restored. To this end, we convened a meeting with key ministers of the Government of National Accord last week to develop a plan after the liberation of Sirte. Reconstruction efforts in Sirte must be a model case for other places, such as Benghazi. The Council will recall my constant appeals for a reconstruction fund for Benghazi after security has been restored. Libya remains a launch pad for thousands of migrants. This year alone, in this season, 112,000 migrants reached Italy's shores from Libya.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“However, the terrorist threat in Libya and beyond will remain, and will require continued vigilance. I would like to pay tribute to the more than 500 brave Libyans who sacrificed their lives and the 2,500 who were injured in the fight against ISIS in Sirte. But importatly, my thoughts also go to the many thousands who fell while fighting the scourge ofterrorism in other parts ofLibya, in particular Benghazi. I also want to thank those who supported the operation to rid Sirte of terrorism at the request of the Presidency Council, particularly the United States for its air support, which without any doubt has saved many lives, striking numerous car bombs before they reached their targets, and strengthened the Presidency Council's ability to defeat ISIS in Sirte.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“I therefore called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urged all parties to avoid inflicting any damage to the oil facilities. I also urged respect for resolution 2259 (2015), which recognizes the Presidency Council and the Government of National Accord as the sole executive authority of Libya. Differences must be resolved through dialogue, not military force. I have many times sought to engage with General Haftar to encourage him to embrace dialogue. However, my repeated attempts have so far been without success. On a positive note, forces loyal to the Presidency Council made impressive progress towards ousting the Islamic State in Iraq and the Sham (ISIS) from its last remaining stronghold in Libya, in Sirte. Very soon, ISIS will no longer hold territory in Libya.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“With respect to the seed situation, on the eve of Bid Al-Adha, the fragile peace in Libya's oil crescent suffered a fierce blow when units of the Libyan National Army, under the command of General Khalifa Haftar, attacked the oil terminals and ports in the oil crescent area. This area was under the control of forces loyal to the Presidency Council. I was concerned that this might happen. This development will further hinder oil exports, deprive Libya of its only source of income, and increase the division of the country. This has to stop. Libyan natural resources belong to all Libyans. They must be protected and exported legally under the authority of the Presidency Council. Otherwise, Libya's citizens will pay the price.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“Faced with few prospects for earning a livelihood, rampant insecurity and endemic corruption, the temptation for the young to leave the country or join armed groups can be overwhelming. This is not a foundation on which to build a stable country. It is high time that the Libyans join forces to urgently address the burning political, security and economic problems of Libya. Given the military events of recent days I would like to briefly update the Council along the following four points: first, the worrying security situation; secondly, the political momentum created by the recent decision of the House of Representatives; thirdly, the need for national reconciliation; and fourthly, the failing economy.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“First of all, I would like to take this opportunity to wish a very joyous and blessed Eid Al-Adha to all those Muslims, and in particular to all Libyans. It is a day for reconciliation- a day to reunite in peace. (spoke in English) I would also like to congratulate New Zealand on presiding over the Security Council this month. Since my last briefing to the Council (see S/PV.7706), the paradox of Libya has become more apparent. The country has a tremendous potential, immense natural resources and a young population eager to reshape its future. And yet, instead of making use of all these blessings, long lines of Libyan men and women wait in the heat in front of banks to withdraw their daily limit of 200 dinars - about $40 - to cover the rising costs of basic necessities.”
2016-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7769 (2016) · source
“(Spoke in Arabic) Today is the first day of Ramadan, a month traditionally associated with a commitment to peace, justice, compassion and reconciliation. I hope that it will in fact be a month of dialogue. I wish the people of Lybia Ramadan Kareem.”
2016-06-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7706 (2016) · source
“I would like to thank the Council for its close engagement on Libya and for its support for a political resolution there. As the report before the Council shows, there is an urgent need for UNSMIL to re-establish its presence in Libya. The establishment of regular UNSMIL flights to Tripoli has facilitated some direct contact with key partners. However, such intervals of quick engagement are insufficient. It is likely that the request for assistance will increase as ministries and the bureaucracy become functional again. It is essential that UNSMIL be on the ground and ready to meet the immediate needs and priorities of Libyans. Allow me to add a few words in Arabic on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan.”
2016-06-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7706 (2016) · source
“Weapons should go only to regular forces after approval by the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011), concerning Libya. The volatile situation in Libya is prone to lead to further war crimes. All military actors in Libya must act within the bounds of international humanitarian law, and those who do not must be brought to account. I recently visited the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Ms. Fatou Bensouda, to express my support for the role that her Office can play in the fight against impunity. The work of the ICC is needed in Libya now more than ever. I ask all Member States that share my concerns for the ongoing international crimes in Libya to provide the Office of the Prosecutor with all the required information - but, above all, with financial resources to prosecute new crimes.”
2016-06-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7706 (2016) · source
“The possibility of renewed military escalation in Libya should be a matter of grave concern for all. Libyans must not fight each other. They must fight united against the common enemy. Our Mission has been actively engaging with all sides to help build consensus around a unified security architecture abd gas assisted the Presidency Council with expertise and good offices. However, we must recognize that Libya is a country awash with weapons - 20 million pieces of weaponry in a land of 6 million inhabitants. Those weapons do not fall from the sky, but come in increasingly through illegal shipments by sea and by land. Those arms fuel the conflict. The shipments must end, if there is to be any serious hope of bringing peace to Libya.”
2016-06-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7706 (2016) · source
“I commend all those who have fought against terrorism in all parts of the country, including in Benghazi and Derna. I deplore the deaths of so many brave sons of Libya. Last week, I visited Misrata and its hospital, with its wounded. I have seen at first-hand the resolve and the commitment to fight Da'esh. However, I am also concerned about the military situation in the country. The oil crescent region has witnessed a build-up of military formations. Libyan army units have moved into the area from the east. Forces under the Presidency Council have been engaged in clashes with Da'esh in areas west of Sirte. However, uncoordinated military actions on the ground have raised the spectre of direct clashes among the different forces fighting Daesh.”
2016-06-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7706 (2016) · source
“Immediate steps are needed to ensure that shortages in cash availability, food and electricity are satisfactorily addressed without further delay. The United Nations and its partners in the international community are ready to assist. Fifthly, the Presidency Council is the sole legitimate recipient of international security assistance in its capacity as supreme commander of a united Libyan army. Sixthly, averting hostilities among the different Libyan security actors involved in the fight against Da'esh requires an inclusive interim security arrangement, including temporary command-and- control arrangements for the army. There simply can be no half-solutions. There was considerable progress over recent days and weeks in the fight against Da'esh.”
2016-06-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7706 (2016) · source
“After two unsuccessful attempts, in February and April, it is high time that the Speaker assume his responsibilities to convene a parliamentary session free of intimidation and threat, in order to take a vote on the proposed Government of National Accord. I also suggest that the House of Representatives request the League of Arab States, the African Union, the United Nations and other members of the international community to attend those sessions as observers. Thirdly, it is Vital that the Presidency Council works in its entirety, with all nine members. I encourage the members who do are not attending the meetings to rejoin the Presidency Council. Fourthly, the Presidency Council will need to move quickly to meet the basic needs of the Libyan people.”
2016-06-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7706 (2016) · source
“The contributions of the European Union to peace, development and the fight against human trafficking are commendable and invaluable. If there is any hope for the Libyan people to exit from the current situation that has engulfed their country, there must be clear lines and principles. As a matter of immediate priority, I propose the following six points. First, the Libyan Political Agreement, endorsed by the House of Representatives on 25 January, remains the sole legitimate framework for managing the remainder of Libya's political transition until a permanent constitution is adopted. Secondly, the House of Representatives remains the institution to endorse and swear in the Government of National Accord. However, it must do so.”
2016-06-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7706 (2016) · source
“I welcome the League of Arab States declaration of 28 May, which encouraged the acting ministers of the Government of National Accord to work from Tripoli until the House of Representatives formally endorsed the Government. The League of Arab States also recognized the Government of National Accord as the sole legitimate Government for Libya and called on Member States to refrain from communicating with any other parallel executive bodies. I also commend the efforts of the African Union and its High Representative for Libya, former President Jakaya Kikwete. This morning the Security Council heard a briefing by Ms. Federica Mogherini, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (see S/PV.7705).”
2016-06-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7706 (2016) · source
“However, it must make progress in fulfilling its obligations under the Libyan Political Agreement to hold a vote on endorsing the Government of National Accord. Given the scale of the problems facing Libya's population, the country must have a functioning Government, ministries and bureaucracy. The rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation and the escalating military tensions linked to the fight against Da'esh require boldness, determination and decisiveness. I wish to take this opportunity to commend the efforts of the Presidency Council over recent weeks to seize the initiative and exercise leadership. It decided to establish joint operation rooms to coordinate military operations against Da'esh, and it instructed ministers to begin work pending their formal swearing-in. Those are steps in the right direction.”
2016-06-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7706 (2016) · source
“Still, the sense of hope and optimism with which people across Libya welcomed the signing of the Agreement and the arrival of the Presidency Council in Tripoli stands in contrast today to their sense of growing impatience and concern. At this critical moment in Libya's transition, facts must be acknowledged as they are. It has been almost five months since the Presidency Council submitted a revised proposal for the Government of National Accord. Today, Libya is still without a formally endorsed Government. The implementation of the Libyan Political Agreement has stalled because some parties to the Agreement have failed to uphold their commitments. The House of Representatives has an integral role to play in Libya's democratic transition.”
2016-06-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7706 (2016) · source
“All that is the consequence of the continued lack of State authority in most parts of the country. Next week marks six months since the signing of the Libyan Political Agreement last December. The signing represented the first time that the Libyan people had dared believe again that peace and unity in Libya were attainable. It was the first time they dared hope that guns, which had brought untold suffering and destruction upon their lives, could finally be silenced. Armed with nothing but the legitimacy bestowed on them by the Libyan Political Agreement, seven courageous members of Libya's Presidency Council took the bold step, on 30 March, to courageously cross the sea from Tunisia to Tripoli.”
2016-06-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7706 (2016) · source
“The number of displaced persons in Libya has reached a staggering 435,000. The capacity of local communities and aid agencies to host and provide assistance to them has been stretched to breaking point. In the month of May, 1,100 migrants died tragically in the central Mediterranean Sea. On a single day - 26 May - 500 migrants drowned off the coast of Libya, including 40 children. To date, the number of migrants who have drowned this year has increased more than 30 per cent as compared to the same period last year. In a natural resources-rich country like Libya, it is unacceptable that the health-care system is so thoroughly dilapidated, that vital infrastructure has been thoroughly damaged and that there are acute shortages in health workers and essential medicines and supplies.”
2016-06-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7706 (2016) · source
“The Security Council has received the Secretary-General's latest report (S/2016/452) on the activities of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), which details the work of the Mission since 26 February. The report also sets out the political progress in Libya and depicts the tragic humanitarian situation that is giving rise to personal tragedies and collective suffering. I therefore begin by emphasizing the humanitarian crisis and the human tragedy afflicting Libya. (spoke in English) In the few weeks since the preparation of the report, more than 6,000 families from Sirte alone have fled their homes to escape the ongoing clashes and military operations against Da'esh, not to mention the day-to- day hardships of life under Da'esh. Many are taking shelter in schools, universities and public buildings.”
2016-06-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7706 (2016) · source
“Finally, I would like to thank the staff of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya for their tireless efforts and dedication in supporting the Libyan political process. Despite the many hurdles, difficulties and frustrations in their daily work, they are highly professional and committed colleagues, and I am very grateful to them.”
2016-03-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7640 (2016) · source
“I am committed to fully engaging with them in reaching a political solution to the crisis. I would like to thank Tunisia for continuing to host UNSMIL temporarily in its capital, and other countries of the region for playing an important role in building consensus. I am deeply appreciative of the efforts of the African Union, the European Union and the League of Arab States. I congratulate President Kikwete on his appointment as High Representative of the African Union for Libya. I met him a few days ago, on 26 February, and I look forward to our close cooperation. I would like to thank in particular the Council for its close engagement and unanimous support for a political resolution of the problems in Libya.”
2016-03-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7640 (2016) · source
“With respect to human rights, the Mission continues to document numerous cases in which armed groups across the country have abducted civilians on account of their identity, political affiliations or simply for ransom. Those seized are often at risk of torture and other ill-treatment. I welcome the recent establishment of a committee by the General Prosecution to review the cases of all those detained at the Mitiga airport in Tripoli. I have continued to strongly advocate increased women's participation in Libyan political life, in particular by calling for a 30-per cent share ofministerial posts in the Government of National Accord. Sadly, my calls have not been heeded. Libya's neighbours are suffering the direct consequences of the country's instability.”
2016-03-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7640 (2016) · source
“On 13 January, the Presidency Council established a Temporary Security Committee to facilitate the implementation of the security arrangements outlined in the Libyan Political Agreement. UNSMIL is supporting the Committee in its efforts to formulate a viable security plan that will enable the Government of National Accord to establish itselfin Tripoli. In western Libya, however, our efforts have been severely impeded by the consistent denials of United Nations overflight and landing permission by the Tripoli-based authorities. Since the beginning of December 2015, practically all our requests to travel to Tripoli and surrounding areas have, with few exceptions, been refused.”
2016-03-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7640 (2016) · source
“The airstrike against Da'esh in Sabrathah on 19 February has been followed by escalating clashes as local security forces and armed groups sought to evict Da'esh from the town. During an assault last week, Da'esh killed 17 people, beheading several of them. Da'esh has also continued to carry out multiple beheadings and atrocities in its stronghold of Sirte. Da'esh in Libya constitutes an urgent and growing threat to Libya, the region and beyond. However, the fight against violent extremism can be sustainable only if it is led by a national unity Government that puts in place and prioritizes a national agenda to address the country's most immediate challenges and works to meet the aspirations and expectations of the Libyan people.”
2016-03-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7640 (2016) · source
“However, I am deeply concerned at unconfirmed reports of human rights violations in some areas overtaken by the Libyan national army. Let us not forget that as a result of the violent conflict, significant parts of Benghazi today lie in ruins. The establishment of a humanitarian ceasefire, the delivery of humanitarian aid and a reconstruction fund for Benghazi must be priorities of the new Government. In southern Libya, the national-level conflict and absence ofa functioning security apparatus continues to exacerbate local intercommunal tensions. Intermittent clashes continue in Sabha and Kufra. The fragmentation of security actors and their preoccupation with consolidating their influence in areas under their control have allowed Da'esh to operate unchecked in many places.”
2016-03-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7640 (2016) · source
“With respect to security questions, while the political process is extremely slow, Da'esh takes advantage of the political and security vacuum and is expanding to the West, East and the South. While Libya's financial resources are dwindling, the criminal networks, including human smuggling, are booming. The conflict in Benghazi has escalated in recent days when forces under the banner of the Libyan national army commenced new offensive operations against the Benghazi Revolutionaries Shura Council and Da'esh. These forces have since gained control of several areas previously held by the Shura Council and succeeded in dislodging Da'esh from a number ofkey neighbourhoods it previously controlled. Many displaced as a result of the conflict in Benghazi have returned to their old neighbourhoods and reclaimed their homes.”
2016-03-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7640 (2016) · source
“Fourthly, in parallel, the Constitution Drafting Assembly should present the draft constitution on time for a referendum. To this end, I am grateful that the Government of Oman has offered to host a retreat. I urge all members of the Constitution Drafting Assembly, including the boycotters, to seize this opportunity and resolve the outstanding problems. Both in eastern and western Libya, there are those who are committed to doing everything in their power to undermine the political process, as well as the formation of a Government of National Accord and its instalment in the capital. These actors must be told in no uncertain terms that enough is enough. It is high time that they stand by the interests of the Libyan people and not against them.”
2016-03-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7640 (2016) · source
“I urge the Presidency Council and the Government of National Accord to immediately establish a mechanism to achieve that goal. The international community and UNSMIL stand ready to assist. Thirdly, support for the Libyan Political Agreement has to be broadened. This will require a parallel, complementary and bottom-up approach. The support of civil society, youth, and women organizations has to be further deepened. Tribal dignitaries and municipalities have a crucial role to play. I intend to work with the relevant authorities responsible for national reconciliation in the new Government of National Accord to arrange for regional forums of tribal leaders and mayors to accompany the process of nation-building. This may later result in a nation-wide Grand Shura.”
2016-03-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7640 (2016) · source
“Branches of the Government, however, should be established in eastern Libya, where Benghazi requires particular attention, and in the South. I thank Prime Minister Fayez Serraj for his perseverance and steadfastness in recent weeks. I encourage all members of the Presidency Council to stand together in unity. I call on the country's political leadership to support and stay the course outlined in the Libyan Political Agreement, and I welcome the preparatory meetings of the State Council. I look forward to the convening of the first official meeting of the State Council in Tripoli as soon as possible. Secondly, given the security situation and the expansion of Da'esh, it is imperative to unify and reform Libyan security forces.”
2016-03-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7640 (2016) · source
“In both those forums, there are clear majorities who are in favour of moving ahead quickly with the establishment of a Government of National Accord. The country needs to move ahead now or risk division and collapse. I therefore intend to proceed along the following lines. First, together with the Libyans and the international community, we will continue to advocate for the implementation of the Libyan Political Agreement. This is the plan; there are no alternatives. The Government of National Accord, as proposed by the Presidency Council, must be allowed to take up its duties in Tripoli as soon as possible. Those who are threatening the Presidency Council and actively preventing it from assuming power in Tripoli should be held accountable on the basis of Security Council resolutions.”
2016-03-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7640 (2016) · source