GCC welcomes ceasefire declaration in Libya

photo courtesy REUTERS

Libya's rival authorities have announced an immediate ceasefire. The Tripoli-based and internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) published a statement that calls for elections in March next year.

Libya has been riven by violence since Col Muammar Gaddafi was deposed by Nato-backed forces in 2011.

The truce was also agreed by an ally of Gen Khalifa Haftar, who controls large parts of the east and south of Libya, the oil-rich nation and a key transit point for migrants heading to Europe from Africa.

The UAE has welcomed a declaration announced by the Libyan House of Representatives for a ceasefire and cease of military operations in all Libyan territories.

In a statement the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation affirmed that a political solution is the sole path to end the Libyan conflict under the UN supervision.

''The UAE considers this decision to be an important step in the road to reaching the political settlement and fulfilling the ambitions of the Libyan people for building a better future that realises their aspirations for stability, peace and prosperity in accordance with the outcomes of the Berlin Summit, Cairo Declaration and the Skhirat Agreement,'' the statement said.

On the other hand, Dr. Nayef Falah M. Al-Hajraf, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, GCC, has welcomed the declaration announced by the Libyan Presidential Council and the House of Representative for an immediate ceasefire and cease of military operations in all Libyan territories.

In a statement issued yesterday, Dr. Al-Hajraf called on all parties in Libya to adhere to this constructive step, to urgently engage in political dialogue, and to work - through the mediation of the United Nations - to reach a permanent and comprehensive solution to end the conflict in Libya, and achieve security and stability for the brotherly Libyan people.