Egyptian and Libyan foreign ministers call for unity at Berlin conference

The ministers say the peace process in Libya lacks a clear strategy

Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukri (C-R) and his Libyan counterpart Najla al-Mangoush (C-L) give a joint press conference after their meeting in the capital Cairo on June 19, 2021.  (Photo by Khaled DESOUKI  /  AFP)
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Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry met his Libyan counterpart, Najla Mangoush, in Cairo on Saturday.

Mr Shoukry emphasised the importance of “achieving clear results” during the Berlin conference on Libya on June 23 and the commitment of all parties to reach a positive outcome.

Ms Mangoush spoke of the opportunities for the Government of National Unity in Libya to bring “a national unified vision and a clear strategy” to the Berlin meetings.

Historically Libya has not been involved in the sessions, owing to “political splits and lack of unified visions”.

The Berlin event follows a conference in January 2020 where leaders agreed to respect an arms embargo and push Libya’s warring parties to reach a full ceasefire.

Countries involved in the peace process include the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, Italy, Turkey and the UAE.

The Berlin conference also aims to bring together powers with interests in Libya and its transitional government.

The agenda will include discussions for preparations for elections in December and the withdrawal of foreign forces.

Updated: June 22, 2021, 1:56 PM