Mr. Sun Lei, China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, called on the international community to support efforts to break the political stalemate in Libya and accelerate the electoral process during his briefing today to the United Nations Security Council.
Mr. Sun Lei stressed the necessity for Libyan political actors in both the west and east of the country to demonstrate genuine political will and expedite the resolution of pending issues. This, he stated, would pave the way for conducting comprehensive national elections and achieving the desired political unity.
He noted that despite the progress made by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) in facilitating the political track, a deep institutional crisis persists. The continued division of state structures, he added, obstructs efforts for effective national governance.
Key Demands for Libyan Parties and the International Community
Compliance with International Resolutions: The Chinese diplomat emphasized the importance of all Libyan parties adhering to relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.
Addressing the Security File: He called for curbing illicit arms trafficking and preventing their diversion, as well as working towards the complete and early withdrawal of mercenaries, foreign fighters, and foreign forces from Libyan territory.
Improving Economic and Humanitarian Conditions: He highlighted the need to address economic challenges, citing the recent agreement on a unified development program among Libyan parties as a positive step that should be built upon.
Reforming the Financial System: He urged the international community to encourage Libyan authorities to expedite the approval of a unified state budget and address structural imbalances such as fragmentation of financial systems, irregular currency printing, and exchange rate instability.
The Deputy Permanent Representative of China concluded his remarks by reaffirming the readiness of the People’s Republic of China to work with all international parties to support Libya on its path towards lasting stability, peace, and sustainable development.
