Brussels, 19/11/2013 (Agence Europe) - Concerned by the “significant deterioration” of both the political and security situation in Libya, EU foreign ministers condemned, on 18 November, the violence in Tripoli on 15 November. They “urge all parties to avoid further bloodshed and refrain from further violence”, violence that was condemned by High Representative Catherine Ashton that same day. In their conclusions, the ministers underline that the security situation remains a serious challenge for the people and for state institutions.
The EU thus “encourages the Libyan authorities to continue pursuing efforts to ensure the progressive integration of members of the revolutionary brigades through the necessary programmes on disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration”, and it will continue to provide assistance and expertise in this respect. The Council underlines its support for the efforts being made by the government and the United Nations to make secure all unsecure stockpiles of arms and ammunitions from the Qaddafi era, and highlights the need to continue the destruction of those stockpiles, as appropriate.
Ministers also stress it is necessary for the Libyan government and the General National Congress to work together to “achieve a peaceful and democratic political transition in a united Libya”. They look forward to the upcoming elections for the Constitutional Drafting Assembly and point out how important it is to have an “inclusive and credible electoral process”. The EU calls on all actors concerned not to hinder the country's economic development through unlawful action. The ministers call on the Libyan authorities to deal with the allegations of human rights violations, including against migrants, and to bring those responsible to justice.
Ministers underline their intention to strengthen the EU's commitment towards the whole society “including through the European Neighbourhood Policy and the re-launch of negotiations of the EU-Libya Framework Agreement”.
The Council also discussed the tragedies in the Mediterranean linked to Libya. (CG/transl.jl)