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By Sami Zaptia.
London, 11 August 2020:
The U.S continued its accelerated push for a ceasefire and a non-military solution to the Libyan crisis. Yesterday, U.S Ambassador to Tripoli Richard Norland met Egyptian officials and Libyan House of Representatives (HoR) head Ageela Saleh in Cairo.
After the meeting, the U.S. released a press statement in which it was clarified that President Trump as well as Pompeo’s State Department were now pushing the same policy line on Libya.
The statement also indicated that Egyptian President Sisi was now onboard U.S. policy for Libya which involved a non-military solution. The statement referred to Egypt as ‘‘partners’’ and welcomed the 6 June Cairo Declaration, which promoted the initiative and role of Ageela Saleh and demoted the military solution and role of Khalifa Hafter.
Here is the full U.S statement on the latest Cairo meeting on Libya:
‘‘Ambassador Norland travelled to Cairo today, following recent discussions about Libya between President Trump and President al-Sisi as well as Secretary Pompeo and Foreign Minister Shoukry, to consult with senior Egyptian officials about steps to achieve a lasting ceasefire, realize a full withdrawal of foreign forces and mercenaries, and support UN-facilitated political dialogue.
With our Egyptian partners, Ambassador Norland welcomed the momentum generated by the June 6 Cairo Declaration and underscored U.S. support for all responsible Libyan leaders seeking a peaceful resolution to the conflict that restores Libya’s sovereignty, promotes economic reforms, and prevents further foreign escalation.
The Ambassador also met with House of Representatives (HOR) Speaker Agilah Saleh to learn about the HOR’s efforts to promote a demilitarized solution for Sirte and al-Jufra, enable the National Oil Corporation to resume its vital work while ensuring that oil and gas revenues are managed transparently, and improve governance leading to credible and peaceful elections.
Ambassador Norland expressed support for the Speaker’s aspirations and those of all responsible Libyan elements, for a Libyan solution to end the conflict and ensure a stable and prosperous future for the Libyan people’’.
For further analysis see:
West and east Libya agreement on need for de-escalation and dialogue: U.S.
U.S. imposes financial sanctions on Libyans, Maltese company and vessel for smuggling fuel and drugs
