Cairo: The foreign ministers of Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria have emphasized that a comprehensive political solution is the only viable path to resolving the ongoing crisis in Libya. This declaration was made during a joint statement at the conclusion of the fourth ministerial meeting of Libya's neighboring countries mechanism, held in Cairo with the participation of Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty, Tunisian Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti, and Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the ministers highlighted the significance of advancing the United Nations-sponsored political process to end division, unify Libyan state institutions, and create conditions conducive to holding simultaneous presidential and parliamentary elections that align with the aspirations of the Libyan people.
The joint statement noted that Egypt hosted the meeting under the framework of the trilateral neighboring countries mechanism on Libya. The focus was on discussing the latest political and security developments and supporting efforts for a comprehensive political settlement that preserves Libya's unity, sovereignty, and stability.
The ministers reiterated the deep historical and fraternal ties linking their countries with Libya, committing to ongoing coordination and consultation within the trilateral mechanism to support Libyans in overcoming divisions and resolving the crisis. They emphasized the principle of Libyan ownership and leadership of the political process, where the solution must be Libyan-led and based on consensus among all Libyan people without exclusion.
Concerns were expressed over security challenges in Libya, including violence and political assassinations. The ministers urged all Libyan parties to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritize national interests. A comprehensive approach linking political, economic, and social tracks is necessary to ensure security, stability, and development for the Libyan people.
The ministers rejected foreign interference in Libya's internal affairs, stating that such actions exacerbate tensions and prolong the crisis. They renewed support for the Joint Military Commission (5+5) and efforts to consolidate the ceasefire and ensure the withdrawal of all foreign forces, foreign fighters, and mercenaries from Libya within a specified timeframe.
Additionally, the importance of continued coordination with the United Nations, the Arab League, and the African Union, among others, was underscored to achieve a comprehensive and sustainable political settlement in Libya. The ministers agreed to continue periodic meetings of the trilateral neighboring countries mechanism, with the next meeting to be hosted by Algeria.
In related discussions, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry reiterated Egypt's unwavering support for Libya's unity and sovereignty. Minister Abdelatty reaffirmed the necessity of a Libyan-Libyan solution as the sole basis for lasting stability and comprehensive settlement, emphasizing the urgency of holding elections and the withdrawal of foreign entities from Libya.