The US Special Envoy and Ambassador to Libya Richard Norland concluded his visit to the Libyan capital Tripoli, threatening sanctions against parties who obstruct the progress of a political process in Libya.
In a clear threat after a series of meetings with government officials, international partners, and the donor community, Norland said Washington may reevaluate its relationships with Libyan actors and institutions that "delay and obstruct progress toward political solutions."
Following his meetings with representatives from the GNU, UNSMIL, World Bank, Presidential Council, High State Council, and High National Elections Commission, Norland underscored the urgency of concrete steps to establish a constitutional basis for credible, transparent elections to preserve the aspirations of the Libyan people.
He appealed to all Libyan leaders and institutions to use their influence to push toward this goal.
He further warned that “a status quo is not sustainable".
Norland lauded the unanimously approved recent extension of the UNSMIL mandate as an opportunity to reset a credible roadmap for elections and establish reasonable timelines for the international community to rally behind.
