UNSC Briefing on UNSMIL/Libya

(16.12.2022; 1000 hours)

Statement by Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj

Permanent Representative of India to the UN

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I will now deliver a statement in my national capacity. I thank SRSG Bathily for his briefing today.

2. As we near the end of our tenure, we cannot but reflect on the fact that the progress made after the signing of the Ceasefire Agreement in October 2020 is at risk of being undermined. It has been nearly one year since the missed deadline for elections, and yet we do not have any agreement on the way forward. The political impasse continues, and points of friction between various institutions have given rise to tensions.

3. It is important that all actors resume their cooperation, in order to overcome the political deadlock. This is in the interest of the people of Libya, and is also in the interest of the region as a whole. Holding elections at the earliest in a free, fair, inclusive, and credible manner is an urgent imperative.

4. Despite the call of the Libyan parties, the continued presence of foreign forces and mercenaries in Libya, in violation of multiple pronouncements of the Security Council, is a matter of concern. Their frequent mobilizations and clashes brings to focus the dangers they pose to Libya’s security and stability. Violations of Security Council resolutions, especially its provisions on arms embargo, are continuing with complete disregard to peace and stability in Libya and the region.

5. We are also concerned at the resurgence of terrorist activities in Libya, and we reiterate that terrorist groups and affiliated entities must not be allowed to operate unchallenged in Libya. Terrorism emanating from Libya is bound to have cascading effects in the Sahel region. It is therefore important for the international community to address it, at this stage itself, so as to avoid its collateral consequences on the wider African continent.

6. In conclusion, I reiterate that the political process in Libya should be fully Libyan-led and Libyan-owned with no imposition or external interference. As we prepare to exit the Security Council, let me re-assure everyone that India remains committed to supporting Libya and the Libyan people in their endeavour to seek lasting peace and stability.

I now resume my duties as the President.

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