The 5+5 Joint Military Commission (JMC) convened Wednesday in Geneva to discuss the development of a comprehensive action plan for the withdrawal of mercenaries, foreign fighters, and foreign forces from Libya, according to a statement by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).

UNSMIL, which facilitated the meeting in the presence of its Head Jan Kubis, said it was held in accordance with the Ceasefire Agreement of 23 October 2020, and relevant UN Security Council resolutions, adding that it is also part of UNSMIL efforts to advance the intra-Libyan security track, in parallel to international efforts as part of the Berlin Conference on Libya.

In his opening remarks, Kubis expressed his appreciation to both delegations and to international partners who are in support of this effort, saying their task is bigger than its military and security aspects; as it has a direct impact on the overall developments in the country, on regaining its sovereignty, stability, security, and unity.

Kubis said the mercenaries and foreign forces' file is a complex issue, as it is not only a concern for Libya, it is also a concern to regional countries and the international community.

"The UN, along with its international partners, stands ready to support you in this endeavor, to the maximum extent possible, including through the deployment of UN ceasefire monitors, who will work under your guidance and at your request to monitor and verify the withdrawal." He said.

Meanwhile, UNSMIL emphasized on the national ownership and leadership of the military and security, political and economic tracks as key to support the Libyans in regaining their sovereignty.

The UN Mission commended the patriotism and commitment of the 5+5 JMC members, encouraging them to seize this opportunity to produce the required action plan for the withdrawal of the mercenaries and foreign fighters and forces, which will also guide the international community’s support to the Libyan efforts to unify the military as well as disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) and security sector reform (SSR) efforts in Libya, with a stabilizing impact on the region.