Congolese President Advocates for Libyan-led Political Reconciliation Process
Congolese President Denis Sassou Nguesso is facilitating a Libyan-led political reconciliation process, following a visit to Libya where he met with local leaders. His discussions focused on restoring stability in the region amidst ongoing divisions and external interferences. Emphasizing the need for unity, Nguesso proposed Ethiopia as the venue for a national reconciliation conference aimed at moving toward elections, highlighting optimism for progress despite current challenges.
Congolese President Denis Sassou Nguesso, who chairs the African Union High-Level Committee on Libya, recently concluded a significant visit to Libya, focusing on restoring relations and fostering stability in the region. Congolese Foreign Minister Jean-Claude Gakosso expressed appreciation for President Nguesso’s efforts to collaborate with Libyan officials to promote peace and prosperity through a Libyan-led political process under the auspices of the African Union. The Congolese leader’s visit was notably welcomed in Cyrenaica and Benghazi, where he spent over 48 hours engaging with local authorities.
During his visit, President Nguesso conveyed a message of peace to Khalifa Haftar, a key figure in eastern Libya, emphasizing the importance of reconciliation amid ongoing internal divisions and external influences that complicate the pursuit of stability. In discussions with Libyan officials, including Presidential Council Head Mohammed Menfi and Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, they addressed essential topics leading up to an anticipated reconciliation conference.
Furthermore, Nguesso proposed the Ethiopian capital as a potential venue for Libyan parties to sign a reconciliation charter in mid-February. He conveyed optimism despite the lack of immediate signs of progress, stating, “We believe that we are on the right path, and we are heading toward national reconciliation, which is necessary to move toward elections.” Such commitments highlight the Congolese leadership’s role in supporting Libya’s political process, as articulated by Minister Gakosso during a subsequent press briefing.
The political landscape in Libya has been marked by persistent internal strife and external interference, significantly hindering efforts to achieve stability since the fall of the Gaddafi regime in 2011. The African Union has been actively involved in mediating the conflict and fostering dialogue among Libyan factions. The visit by President Nguesso, who chairs an African Union committee focused on Libya, underscores regional efforts to promote unity and facilitate a political reconciliation process tailored by the Libyan people themselves. This initiative comes at a crucial time, as Libya prepares for potential elections and seeks to overcome longstanding divisions.
The commitment of Congolese President Denis Sassou Nguesso to Libya’s political process highlights a concerted regional effort to navigate the complex landscape of Libyan politics. His positive engagements with key figures in Libya reflect a broader strategy aimed at achieving peace and stability through Libyan-led reconciliation. As Libya approaches significant political milestones, such as the proposed reconciliation conference, continued support from the African Union will be essential in facilitating meaningful dialogue and fostering an environment conducive to democratic elections.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
