Middle-east Arab News Opinion | Asharq Al-awsat

Shoukry, Kobler Agree on Need to Preserve Libya’s Sovereignty | ASHARQ AL-AWSAT English Archive 2005 -2017
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UN Special Representative and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya Martin Kobler talks to the media after his address to the 33rd Human Rights Council at the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, September 27, 2016. REUTERS/Pierre Albouy


Cairo– Egypt’s Foreign Affairs Minister Sameh Shoukry and UN Special Envoy to Libya Martin Kobler have said that any solution to the current political crisis in Libya should emanate from national efforts in order to preserve the country’s sovereignty and independence.

The two officials met in Cairo on Thursday to assess the situation in Libya, as reported by the Egyptian foreign ministry spokesperson, Ahmed Abou Zeid.

Shoukry underlined the need to reach solutions that would guarantee the entity of the Libyan state and preserve its institutions.

He stressed in this regard the importance to abide by the Skhirat agreement as a basis to restoring stability in the African country and activating the role of national institutions.

The foreign minister expressed Egypt’s keenness on promoting cooperation with the United Nations on the Libyan file. He reiterated that working with the UN on the Libya situation was important and beneficial.

As Kobler’s successor is expected to be announced soon, diplomatic sources told Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper that Richard Wilcox, who served as an officer in the military intelligence, was likely to occupy the post.

Abou Zeid said that Kobler praised Egypt’s leading role in the region and its efforts to resolve the deteriorating situation in Libya.

He also valued the country’s endeavor to activate the political process to reach a peaceful solution to the Libyan crisis and to encourage dialogue between the different disputing factions.

Kobler also said that his recent visit to Cairo would be his last as an international envoy, thanking the Egyptian foreign minister for his support during his mission.

He expressed hope for further collaboration between the new UN envoy and the Egyptian government.

Abou Zeid said talks during the meeting touched on latest developments in Libya on the security and political levels, as well as challenges facing peace negotiations.