ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Pakistan has called on UN diplomats in Libya to devise a “well-defined” strategy to break the country’s prolonged political deadlock, urging a clear path towards presidential elections and the unification of Libyan institutions.
Ambassador Munir Akram, Pakistan’s permanent representative to the United Nations, emphasized the need for a peacebuilding and reconciliation approach that could pave the way for lasting stability. He made the remarks during a session on the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) , underscoring the importance of meaningful dialogue among Libyan stakeholders.
“Libya’s future hinges on a constructive dialogue to address outstanding issues and unify its institutions,” Akram told the UN Security Council. “It is essential for all Libyan factions to come together and address these issues to restore national unity.”
Libya has been divided for over a decade since the fall of Muammar Qaddafi, with two rival administrations holding power — the Government of National Unity (GNU) in the west and the Government of National Stability (GNS) in the east. Plans for landmark elections, initially set for December 2021, have been repeatedly delayed due to disputes over the eligibility of candidates, further stalling progress toward stability.
Ambassador Akram also welcomed the appointment of Ghanaian diplomat Hanna Tetteh as the new Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya. He expressed hope that Tetteh’s wealth of experience would help bring much-needed peace and stability to the country.
“Only a Libyan-led, Libyan-owned process will lead to lasting peace and stability,” Akram said, stressing the importance of inclusive governance that delivers tangible benefits to all Libyan citizens.
He also highlighted positive developments, such as an agreement between security institutions from the east and west to establish a joint centre for communication and cooperation. However, he warned that these steps, while promising, are only the beginning and will require a well-structured strategy to accelerate the transition to elections and secure lasting peace.
Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the UN’s efforts in stabilizing Libya, with Akram adding, “As a long-standing friend of Libya, Pakistan will continue to contribute to the mission of peace and stability.”
Opening the session, UN Political Affairs chief Rosemary DiCarlo voiced grave concerns about the country’s growing instability, attributing the risks to deep political rifts, economic mismanagement, and ongoing human rights abuses. She warned that these issues continue to erode Libya’s unity, making the prospect of a democratic and prosperous future seem increasingly distant.
DiCarlo also pointed to the failure of Libya’s leaders and security forces to prioritize national interests over personal and political gain, which has hindered progress towards national reconciliation and the long-awaited elections. “Libya’s stability is increasingly at risk,” she concluded.
As the situation remains critical, international efforts to resolve the deadlock and bring peace to Libya are more urgent than ever.
