Luxembourg, 12/10/2015 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 12 October, the European foreign ministers hailed and fully supported the political agreement in Libya that was presented on 8 October (see EUROPE 11407). They called on “all Libyan parties to quickly approve and support this deal so that Libya can take the path of peace and prosperity”.
“This is the only way to meet the aspirations of the Libyan people. The EU recognises that this will be an important first step in returning Libya on the path towards peaceful transition, but it is a step that is essential to take now”, the European ministers state in their conclusions. While they commended those who “constructively participated in the negotiations over many months, demonstrating a sense of responsibility and leadership”, the ministers warn that “those tempted to obstruct this agreement will be held responsible”. According to France's Secretary of State for European Affairs Harlem Désir, the ministers could ask the Security Council to provide for sanctions against those who want to prevent the constitution of the government.
The Europeans also hail the nomination of senior figures for the new government of national accord, who now have the responsibility of forming a cabinet and overseeing the swift implementation of the agreement.
The Council also states that the EU is ready to work in close collaboration with the new government, once it is formed, “to offer immediate and substantial support in a number of different areas defined together with the Libyan authorities”. The European Commission has put forward aid of €100 million to the government and the Europeans have reiterated their resolve to help Libya as far as migration issues and the fight against terrorism are concerned. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)