The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) welcomed the creation of a new joint force, from both sides of the demarcation lines, comprising the 166 Battalion for Protection and Security and the Tareq Bin Ziyad Brigade – hardline pro-Haftar militia, which has been tasked to secure the Man-Made River.
UNSMIL commended these efforts, conducted in coordination with the 5+5 Joint Military Commission (JMC), saying it is a very significant step forward towards the unification of the military institution and the country.
“I strongly welcome this achievement, which would not only ensure the security of the Great Man-Made River and uninterrupted flow of water supply, but also paves the way for further confidence-building measures and eventually for the full implementation of the Ceasefire Agreement as well as for the reunification of state institutions,” Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Libya, and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Jan Kubis said.
He added that this step sends a strong message to Libyans and international actors that Libyans are able and willing to overcome their differences and come together in building a unified, stable, prosperous and democratic country.
