Speaker, hon members, South Africa was active in the support and drafting of the AU roadmap for the resolution of the Libyan crisis and the subsequent proposals to the Libyan parties for a framework agreement on a political solution to the crisis in Libya.
We have also been actively engaged with both the erstwhile Libyan government and the National Transitional Council in finding a peaceful resolution to the crisis. We believe the AU roadmap still provides the best way forward toward peace and normality in Libya.
The elements of the roadmap include the immediate cessation of hostilities, facilitation of the delivery of humanitarian assistance, the protection of foreign and African migrant workers, the establishment and management of an inclusive transitional period and the adoption and implementation of political reforms to meet the aspirations of the Libyan people for democracy, justice, peace and security. These elements are in line with the AU Postconflict Reconstruction and Development Policy.
At the 297th meeting of the AU Peace and Security Council, PSC, the AU reiterated its deep concern with regard to the proliferation of weapons and their impact on regional security and stability. In this regard it was proposed that a regional conference be convened to facilitate regional co- ordination and co-operation.
The PSC also urged the Libyan authorities to ensure the safety and security of African migrant workers and to hold a pledging conference to mobilise resources for the socioeconomic reintegration of migrant workers into their countries of origin. The PSC also authorised the chairperson of the commission to establish an AU liaison office in Tripoli, to be headed by a special representative.
This office will work with the United Nations, the League of Arab States and other stakeholders to stabilise Libya, to promote national reconciliation and inclusivity as well as to facilitate the transitional process towards democratic institutions.
South Africa has its own unique contribution to make. Our experience in reconciliation, as well as the integration of the armed forces following the transition to its democratic dispensation, could be relevant in the current postconflict phase in Libya.
In addition, the governance configuration in the Great Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya did not foster a culture of democracy and respect for human rights and the rule of law. Greater effort will be needed to support the establishment of the requisite democratic institutions, legal frameworks and reconciliatory mechanisms.
South Africa stands ready to assist in any way possible so that Libya can return to normalcy. I thank you.