Tripoli, 04 August 2014 - The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) welcomes the convening of the Council of Representatives amid difficult circumstances for Libya, conditions which call for determination to continue with the political process despite the prevailing challenges.

This step reflects the genuine will of the Libyan people to see that the democratic process and its outcomes are respected. It also reflects the people's insistence on building a state based on the rule of law and respect for human rights.

On this occasion, the Mission once again condemns the continuing bloody battles in Tripoli and Benghazi and their devastating effects on the lives of the civilian population and on the environment. UNSMIL reminds all sides of their legal obligations towards the civilian population under international law, including refraining from endangering their lives. The Mission renews its call on all sides for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire and to reject all attempts to resolve political differences through violence.

UNSMIL is hopeful and we look forward to the elected Council of Representatives playing its rightful role in leading efforts aimed at ending the security deterioration, taking the necessary steps to safeguard the security, safety, unity and sovereignty of libya, and contributing to creating the dynamics for an inclusive political dialogue to achieve the aspired consensus on the priorities of the period ahead.

The Mission looks forward to providing the necessary technical support to the Council, according to the priorities and mechanisms it will define.