WASHINGTON – Western allies said last week that the nation of Libya is at a crossroads. Below is the text of a joint statement by the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States:
Libya is at a crossroads. On one side lies the achievement of the transition through the political process and the forging of a Constitutional Charter based on nationally agreed principles, with a view to achieving the goals of the 17th of February revolution and fostering the rule of law, the respect of human rights and the welfare of its citizens. On the other lies chaos, fragmentation, violence and terrorism.
The European Union, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and the United States, deeply concerned by the repeated acts of violence, call on all sides to refrain from the use of force and to address differences by political means. We stand ready to support an inclusive reconciliation process in order to gather all the Libyans in support of the political transition, with the support of the United Nations.
We emphasize the importance of carrying on the transition in a peaceful and democratic way. We insist, in this framework, on the opportunity of holding parliamentary elections as soon as possible. The democratic constitutional process has begun its work to codify the principles of democracy that will protect all citizens of Libya, irrespective of geographic or tribal affiliation.
The process leading to a peaceful transition of power should be based upon broad consensus, avoiding any acts which seek to undermine that process.
Building upon Rome Conference Conclusions, we will work to facilitate dialogue and reconciliation as the key to the stabilization process, in the national interest of Libya and of the security of the region, with the coordination of the UN.
Persistent divisions amongst Libyans will gravely challenge the ability of the international community to assist Libya.
