Libyan dialogue participants initialed the Libyan Political Agreement at a ceremony in the Moroccan city of Skhirat last night.

Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of Mission for Libya Bernardino Leon addressed the ceremony, saying: "This is one but a very important step on the road to peace ... a peace, which all Libyans have been long seeking to achieve Through this text you are laying the foundation for a modern, democratic state based on the principle of inclusion, the rule of law, separation of powers and respect for human rights." The UN envoy for Libya, said the "door is open to all not present" when he announced the draft accord.

"They have also played a critical role in this text. As I have said many times, there is no text that is entirely satisfactory to all parties and that responds to all their demands... I am confident that in the weeks ahead a clear decision will be made and will address all sides and issues," Leon said.