While there is growing recognition that the crisis in Libya has entered a final and decisive phase, enormous challenges remain to be met as fighting continues in many parts of the country, including Tripoli, Sirte and Sabha.
“Lives continue to be lost. The destruction of property and livelihoods has been tragically heavy,” he said. “There are widespread shortages of fuel, food and medical supplies, particularly in the Nafusa Mountains and Tripoli. Reports on the ground suggest that the water supply to the capital and surrounding region may be in danger, putting approximately three million people, or more, at risk.”
After the video conference Mr. Ban told reporters all participants agreed that the international community must come together with an effective, well-coordinated programme of action, with the UN playing “an essential coordinating role,” although it is up to the Libyan people to determine their future.
Meanwhile, Deputy Secretary-General Asha-Rose Migiro told the AU Peace and Security Council in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, that the UN sees the AU as a key partner in helping Libya to rebuild. “When the United Nations and the African Union work together, we succeed,” she said.
She noted that there had been differences between the AU and other nations and regional organizations on the Libyan crisis, with some African States reportedly opposing the UN-backed bombing campaign by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to protect civilians from Mr. Qadhafi’s forces. “Now is the moment, however, to look to the future,” she said.
“Together, we must encourage the new leadership to undertake every effort to protect civilians and public institutions, to maintain law and order, and to promote national reconciliation and unity,” she added, calling for the establishment of a government that can deliver on its people’s hopes.
(Source: United Nations News Centre)