UAE backs Sisi's Libya peace plan

The UAE on Saturday announced its support for an Egyptian initiative to end the civil war in Libya.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said the UAE stands with all efforts that seek an immediate end to the fighting in Libya, and return to the political track led by the United Nations in a manner that guarantees Libya's sovereignty from all external interference.
Egypt's President Abdel Fattah El Sisi told a news conference in Cairo on Saturday that his initiative includes a ceasefire starting Monday and is meant to pave the way for elections in oil-rich Libya. He warned against continuing to look for a military solution to the country's crisis.
"There can be no stability in Libya unless peaceful means to the crisis are found that include the unity and integrity of the national institutions," Sisi said. "The initiative could be a new start in Libya."
The UAE Ministry called on the Libyan authorities, headed by the government of reconciliation and the Libyan National Army, to respond immediately to Sisi's initiative. The ministry explained that the political track is the only acceptable option to reach the desired stability and prosperity.
The initiative urged the withdrawal of "foreign mercenaries from all Libyan territory, dismantling militias and handing over their weaponry", Sisi said.
He also said it paves the way for forming an elected presidential council in Libya and prevents "extremist groups and militias" from gaining control over the country's resources.
There was no immediate comment from the UN-supported government based in Tripoli.
reporters@khaleejtimes.com 

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