Tripartite discussions on Libya’s future kick off at Villa Francia

Tripartite discussions on Libya’s future and security kicked off this evening at Villa Francia, following the arrival of the Head of the UN Support Mission in Libya, Bernardino Leon.

Leon landed in Malta this evening, 24 hours after the arrival of Libyan Prime Minister Abdullah al Thinni and four other ministers.

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, who is hosting the discussions, told a press conference earlier this afternoon that Malta will keep reaffirming its position that peace and stability in Libya can only be attained through disarmament and political dialogue.

Leon’s visit to Malta and his meeting with Al Thinni are taking place amid increasing violence in Libya. The Libyan premier, whose government is recognised by the international community, is now calling for logistical support.

Only last month, Leon warned that Libya was closer to the brink of protracted conflict and strife. He said that, three years after the fall of the Gaddafi regime, the Libyan people find themselves nowhere closer to realising their hopes and aspirations for a better future.

Briefing the United Nations, Leon urged the Security Council to take advantage of a “small window of opportunity.”

“The small window of opportunity before us for a peaceful resolution to the current crisis should not be missed. Libya’s leaders will have to act quickly, and seek a political solution through a meaningful and inclusive dialogue,” he said.

Leon had also admitted that he had no illusions regarding the difficulties and challenges ahead “but that he remained a fervent supporter of the Libyan people’s desire to safeguard their country’s national unity and social fabric.”