An initiative for national dialogue was launched by Libya’s parliament-appointed Prime Minister Fathi Bashagha on Tuesday to resolve the country’s crisis.
Bashagha, a rival of Tripoli-seated Libyan government, told a press conference in the eastern city of Derna that the government “is launching this initiative to expand the scope of communication and participation with everyone.”
He added that this initiative “reflects a desire to unify all efforts and prepare for a phase of construction.”
Giving some details about his initiative, Bashagha said the drive targets all political, societal and military forces and aims to “agree on some values and national principles.”
Adding that his Cabinet is keen “on opening discussions and dialogue with the leaders of the military formations to bridge the gap of disagreement with some, dispel fears and clarify its program to others,” he further stated, “The government extends its hand to communicate with all streams, parties, political blocs and civil society organizations.”
Since parliament in March gave confidence to a new government headed by Bashagha, a former interior minister, while Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh insists on remaining at his post as the country’s prime minister, tensions have mounted in Libya.
In anticipation of conflict, Bashagha announced recently that his government would carry out its duties from the city of Sirte if it attempted to enter the capital Tripoli.
