UN welcomes signing of Libyan political deal in Morocco

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon hailed the inking of the Libyan Political Agreement among warring factions in the Moroccan city of Skhirat after more than 14 months of protracted negotiations, according to UN News Center.

“I warmly welcome today’s historic signing of the Libyan Political Agreement by the participants of the Libyan political dialogue,” Mr. Ban said in a statement following the signing ceremony.

“The agreement will lead to the establishment of a single Government of National Accord and national institutions that will ensure broad representation. It is a critical step in continuing Libya’s post-revolution transition after months of turmoil and uncertainty,” he added.

Mr. Ban said he is hopeful the signing of the agreement will put Libya back on the path of building a democratic State based on the principles of inclusion, human rights and the rule of law. “The door will remain open to those who wish to join on the road to peace. We will continue to work to broaden the basis of support for the new Government,” he added.

Martin Kobler, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative and head of the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), also hailed today as “an historic day” for the North African nation.

He said in a statement that “after a period of political divisions and conflict, Libya is restarting its political transition” with the agreement that “puts in place a single set of legitimate institutions – essential building blocks towards a peaceful, secure and prosperous Libya.”

He noted that participating in the signing were representatives of a broad range of Libyan society including members of the House of Representatives and the General National Congress, as well as important public figures from Libyan political parties, civil society, municipalities and women groups.

Sources: MENA