Assistant FM: Libya Reconciliation Agreement Starting Point for Peace

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Doha/Information Office/23 November 2015/ HE Assistant Foreign Minister for International Cooperation Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani said that Qatar's efforts to solve the dispute in southern Libya stems from its belief that dialogue is the most effective way to end conflicts in all countries, expressing hope that the reconciliation that was agreed will be a starting point for bringing peace across Libya. Speaking exclusively to QNA, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman hailed the role of neighboring countries, notably Algeria and Niger, in the success of Qatar's efforts, praising all the sides and parties to the conflict who were patient and brave and met at the same table, which, he said, helped in reaching a comprehensive reconciliation agreement to end fighting in the southern town of Ubari between the tribes of Tuareg and Tebu. He added that the Qatari initiative came after interaction with the Libyan General National Congress who requested that HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani brokers a mediation in southern Libya, a region that has been suffering from disputes in more than one area. HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman said HH the Emir directed for working with all sides and hosting negotiations in Doha, adding that the process started with hosting negotiations between the two tribes with Qatar playing the mediatory role. He noted that the dialogue was inter-Libyan and Qatar has worked to bring points of view closer, adding that this is the role Qatar was known for in settling disputes in Darfur, Djibouti, Eritrea and Lebanon. The assistant foreign minister said Qatar's brokerage of the reconciliation agreement is a cornerstone in the consolidation of security and stability in southern Libya, adding that Qatar will continue to stand by the choices of the Libyan people and exert any effort that helps in restoring security and stability to Libya. He said the agreement aims to stop the bloodshed among Libyans and is of great importance to the re-establishment of security and stability in southern Libya, a crucial area for Libya and neighboring countries. He noted that the significance of the agreement stems from its role in preserving Libya's territorial unity and also bears significance for Qatar as it contributes to the U.N. efforts in supporting Libyan dialogue.