Libya's neighbours discuss restoration of peace and democracy

Libya’s neighbouring countries as well as representatives from the African Union, European Union and the Arab League on Monday met in the Algeria capital to discuss the progress made on restoring peace to the troubled north African country.

In what has become a sort of annual meeting to appraise the progress made in the country, the focus of Monday’s meeting was to get the political process in Libya back on track.

The vast north African country has had rival governments since the fall of its long time leader Muammar Gadaffi until a UN-backed administration assumed office last year.

The country has also been over-run by terrorist groups especially the so-called Islamic State which until recently had a stronghold in Sirte.

Many of the delegates at Monday’s meeting were of the view that the political agreement in Libya must remain the framework for a negotiated solution.

Highlighting the the mineral and human resource wealth of Libya, Algeria’s Minister for African and Maghreb Affairs, Abdelkader Messahel said the country had the potential to bounce back from the ashes and for peace to be restored.

The meeting reviewed the threats facing the region including the increased activities of terrorist groups.

The main priority however remains easing tensions in Libya to create room for political discussions.

The UN’s special envoy for Libya, Martin Kobler announced an inclusive and comprehensive national reconciliation plan which he said will be backed by the UN mission in Libya.