Tripoli, 1 November 2012- The Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Mr. Tarek Mitri, welcomes the formation of the new Libyan Government, and extends his congratulations to Prime Minister Ali Zeidan and members of his Cabinet.

SRSG Mitri congratulates the General National Congress, the legitimately elected body chosen to represent the will of the Libyan people for moving forward in the process of their democratic transition.

He wishes the new government success in addressing the many challenges new Libya is facing, including the building of security institutions, promoting national reconciliation as well as upholding the rule of law, securing human rights and implementing transitional justice. In meeting these challenges, the support of the Libyan people to its democratically elected State institutions is essential.

SRSG Mitri notes that the recent events in Bani Walid highlight the urgent need for Libyans to foster dialogue, work together towards national reconciliation and strengthen State civilian and security institutions to affirm the authority of the Libyan State over its national territory and ensure protection of all citizens and stability in the country.

SRSG Mitri takes this opportunity to reiterate the commitment of the United Nations to a democratic and prosperous Libya and to fully support the new government and the Libyan people in accordance with its mandate under Security Council resolution 2040 (2012).

He further reiterates that UNSMIL and the whole of the United Nations will continue to work closely with the Government and the National General Congress in support of Libya.