Thank you, Special Representative Bathily, for your update on the current situation in Libya. We welcome your efforts to engage all parties to reach agreement on a constitutional framework for presidential and parliamentary elections and a timeline for a vote. We call on all Libyan leaders to meaningfully participate in a process that leads Libya to free and fair elections as soon as possible. There is no other viable path to unified governance.
In the lead-up to elections, it is imperative that Libya continue to make progress on the implementation of the 2020 ceasefire agreement, particularly the immediate withdrawal of all foreign forces, foreign fighters, and mercenaries. All must commit to reducing tension that could lead to renewed widespread violence. It is also imperative that Libya’s leaders embrace a transparency mechanism that catalogs – in detail – the state’s oil revenue and the allocation of those funds to ensure they are used for the benefit of the Libyan people.
Before I close, Mr. President, let me respond to the accusations of the Russian delegate this morning. The United States rejects accusations that somehow access to Libyan oil reserves is the cause of the political impasse in Libya today. We are dismayed that Council members who are active participants in the conflict today, and who violate the UN charter by invading and occupying their neighbor, continue to shift the focus of this Council with unfounded conspiracy theories. It is simply a failed attempt to shield themselves from legitimate criticism. Libya’s leaders must shoulder the responsibility of achieving sustainable peace, good governance, and ultimately prosperity for the people of Libya. And the United State stands to support them. Thank you, Mr. President.
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