African Union Backs Skhirat and Bouznika Initiatives to Resolve Libyan Crisis

Monday 25 November 2024 - 15:20

The African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) has reaffirmed its support for the Skhirat Agreement and the Bouznika dialogue process as key frameworks for achieving a lasting political solution to Libya’s prolonged crisis. Meeting on November 12, the PSC reiterated the importance of these initiatives in fostering Libyan-led reconciliation and advancing stability in the country.

In its official statement, the PSC emphasized that the Skhirat Agreement, signed in December 2015 under the auspices of the United Nations, remains a credible foundation for resolving the Libyan conflict. The Bouznika process, spearheaded by Morocco, complements these efforts through consultation and dialogue among Libya’s political factions.

Morocco’s Role in Facilitating Dialogue

Morocco has played a pivotal role in hosting numerous talks between Libya’s rival factions in the city of Bouznika, near Rabat. These meetings have brought together representatives from Libya's Eastern-based Parliament and the Tripoli-based High Council of State. The discussions have focused on forging consensus on electoral laws and resolving critical points of contention.

In 2022, the Bouznika meetings led to significant progress in preparing for Libya’s presidential and legislative elections. Key disagreements were addressed, paving the way for a framework that could guide the country toward a democratic future. Moroccan representatives continue to stress that dialogue among Libyan actors is the only viable path to peace.

Morocco’s Call for Inter-Libyan Solutions

During the recent PSC meeting, Morocco’s ambassador to the African Union, Mohamed Arrouchi, reiterated the nation’s unwavering commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Libyan crisis. He highlighted Morocco’s “sincere efforts” to foster dialogue free from foreign interference and emphasized the need for an inclusive, transparent electoral process to address the country’s legitimacy challenges.

Arrouchi underscored Morocco’s stance that Libyans must lead their own reconciliation efforts, agreeing on a comprehensive roadmap for the future without external intervention. This position aligns with Morocco’s broader strategy to facilitate discussions while respecting Libya’s sovereignty.

Global Recognition of Morocco’s Efforts

Morocco’s initiatives in Bouznika and beyond have been widely commended by both Libyan officials and United Nations representatives familiar with the ongoing crisis. The country’s diplomatic approach has been lauded for creating an environment conducive to constructive dialogue, ensuring that Libyan voices remain central to the peace process.

As Libya continues to grapple with a decade-long crisis, the Skhirat Agreement and Bouznika process offer a beacon of hope for a sustainable and inclusive resolution, guided by the principle of Libyan ownership of their country’s destiny.