U.S. Ambassador Norland and Prime Minister al-Sarraj conferred by telephone today. Ambassador Norland reiterated the U.S. position, affirmed by the UN Security Council, that the Libyan Political Agreement and its associated institutions, including the Government of National Accord (GNA), are the sole internationally recognized framework for Libya’s governance and political transition.
The Ambassador reiterated the U.S. rejection of Libyan National Army (LNA) commander Haftar’s effort to unilaterally proclaim a new political future for the country. The United States once again calls on the LNA to halt its military operations around Tripoli so that a process of de-escalation can begin and the parties can implement the ceasefire agreement negotiated in 5+5 format in Geneva on February 23.
Ambassador Norland assured PM Sarraj that the United States believes lasting peace and stability in Libya and tangible steps to protect the interests of all Libyans can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue and negotiations. In that spirit, the path of dialogue is open to all responsible Libyan parties that are prepared to put down their weapons, reject foreign interference, and come together through exclusively political means on the issues that divide them. The Ambassador offered the Prime Minister his best wishes during the month of Ramadan.