The Libyan mission to the United Nations participated in the 31st Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic that took place on Thursday.

Libya's pre-recorded statement was given by Foreign Minister Muhammad Sayala, on behalf of Prime Minister Fayez Al-Sarraj.

Sayala expressed hope that the convening of this special session would contribute to strengthening international solidarity, cooperation, and unit efforts towards confronting the epidemic.

"The pandemic has caused heavy human losses and triggered a crisis at the humanitarian and economic levels," Sayala said.

He stressed the need to step up collective efforts and collaboration to save all people's lives without discrimination through a comprehensive strategy with coordinated, swift, and decisive human dimensions, based on respect for human dignity and the right to life.

"All should have access to means of response to address this epidemic," he underscored, welcoming in this regard the announcement of finding viable and safe vaccines.

Sayala expressed his aspiration to enhance the World Health Organization's role in coordinating efforts to ensure the vaccine is made available to everyone everywhere.