Lack of clarity as Libyans start new round of talks in Tunisia

Mustafa Kamel

There are concerns in Libya over the failure of ongoing talks between the country’s rivals to reach a comprehensive settlement to the conflict in their country.

This is especially true after some of the militias backing the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord expressed opposition to the ongoing dialogue between Libyan rivals in Tunisia.

This came after the talks started in Tunisia under the auspices of the United Nations.

Optimism

The talks in Tunisia aim at unifying the whole of Libya under one leadership. They also aim at paving the road for elections and committing rival parties to a ceasefire.

United Nations Envoy to Libya Stephanie Williams said the talks were not easy to start.

She added that a ceasefire reached by the Libyans in Geneva a few weeks ago paved the road for the new round of talks in Tunisia.

She expressed optimism that the talks can produce positive results.

Williams expressed hopes that the Libyans can start a new chapter after years of conflict and fighting.

Meanwhile, Tunisian President Qais Saied said at the inaugural session of the talks between Libyan rivals that the Libyans can reach agreement.

Reaching this agreement, he said, would prevent foreign interference in Libyan affairs.

“We launch this meeting in full honesty and determination,” the Tunisian president said.

He expressed confidence that the Libyans would be able to overcome all the hindrances they meet on the road of reaching an agreement.

Saied said there was no room for guardianship over the Libyan people. He said his country is for the unity of Libya.

Dividing Libya, he said, would not only pose dangers to Libya, but to the whole region.