18 January 2015 – The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) welcomes the decision announced today in Tripoli by Spokesman Omar Humeidan to join the new round of talks to reach a political solution to end the fighting.

This step broadens the base of support for the process aimed at restoring security and stability to Libya. The Mission believes that the growing support for the dialogue is proof that all sides are ready to sit down and discuss an end to the conflict.

UNSMIL stresses the importance of the Libyans coming together to decide on how best to build a peaceful and democratic Libya based on the rule of law and respect for human rights. The Mission believes that Libyans should not miss this opportunity if they want to save their country from further destruction, and that they need to expedite the convening of the next round of dialogue.

The Mission takes note of the proposal to hold the talks in Libya. All participants in the dialogue agree that the priority should be, if the logistical and security conditions are met, to hold the talks in Libya. The mission is consulting with the Libyan stakeholders before the next round of talks to identify an acceptable venue that also provides maximum security to the participants.