If Libya’s situation deteriorates further, it could provide fertile ground for extremism and terrorism, Foreign Minister George Vella said during a meeting of the Libya Neighbouring Countries Group in Madrid.
“Libyans are finding it near to impossible to even talk to one another. This is precisely why I had proposed, in another forum, the setting-up of an International Commission for National Reconciliation, preferably under UN auspices, that will have the sole objective of bringing all warring parties around the negotiating table,” he said.
Dr Vella said Libyans were a reasonable, well meaning, and peaceful people who loved their country as much as they loved their family. They were never inclined to fighting and were now demanding that the violence and the hatred that engulfed their communities cease forthwith.
“This is their justified demand and our task and obligation is to encourage, support and assist them in their search for a better tomorrow,” Dr Vella said.
He said that countries, regions and the surrounding neighbourhood were facing serious challenges by radical and unscrupulous groups that threatened the values and the very existence of the civilised world.
“We are obliged to counter and withstand such a reign of terror and destruction.
“We have to act fast and before it is too late. There is no more space for rhetoric. We have to move from words into action. Libya is calling and we have to respond. If Libya’s situation deteriorates further, it could provide fertile ground for extremism and terrorism.
“We just cannot stay idle and allow this to happen. The Libyan population, civil society, municipal and local authorities have also an important and relevant role and are duty bound to act and act decisively,” Dr Vella said.
He said that Libya’s problems had to be solved by Libyans themselves.
“There is no room for procrastination. Libyans have to rally around the same table, forget their differences and decide the future of their country. But they have to abide by democratic rules. Might is not right. The barrel of a gun will not settle the differences that exist.
“This can only be achieved through a serious and inclusive political dialogue that leads to the recognition of legitimate institutions, first and foremost the legitimacy of the democratically elected Parliament in Tobruk, the rule of law, international humanitarian law and respect for human rights. Malta stands ready to contribute towards this end,” Dr Vella said.