Brussels, 06/10/2014 (Agence Europe) - On Saturday 4 October, the European Union - greatly concerned by the growing number of victims of violence in Benghazi (Libya) - condemned the recent suicide bombings, targeted assassinations and clashes between armed groups.
“The continued fighting poses a serious threat to the security and stability of the country and the wider region”, said the spokesperson for High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton.
In the spokesperson's view, these “violent incidents confirm once again the need for an urgent ceasefire in the country and the resumption of political dialogue”. “A political process, and not armed confrontation, is the only way to address underlying differences and to secure a peaceful future for all Libyans”, Ashton's spokesperson added, stating that the EU urged the Libyan parties to participate constructively in the UNSMIL-facilitated peace talks (United Nations Support Mission in Libya). The EU welcomes the courage and conviction of those who have come to the negotiating table, Ashton's spokesperson stated. The first dialogue took place on 29 September to discuss the means to put an end o the crisis.
The EU recalled that the international community would not hesitate in taking action against those who undermine the political process and prospects of peace in the country. The UN Security Council has threatened to apply further sanctions focusing on assets freezes and travel bans. (CG)