UN proposes Libyan unity government • Maltese parliament debates EU efforts

As the United Nations presented its proposals to reconcile Libya’s warring factions into a unity government, the Maltese House of Representatives debated efforts by the European Union to assist the divided nation.

According to Opposition leader Simon Busuttil, the Council conclusions were “a disappointment” in what the EU was ready to do help with the Libyan crisis.

“The council conclusions are a huge disappointment: they aren’t satisfactory at all and there is no concrete action by the EU,” Busuttil said.

A surprised Muscat turned to the PN leader sitting on the opposite benches in parliament, exclaiming that the EU couldn’t have sent a stronger message of support.

The PM said the EU didn’t want to interfere with the work being carried out by the United Nations in helping the warring factions reach an agreement. “Too many cooks spoil the broth and it’s better if the UN concentrates on efforts to form a unity government,” he said.

Muscat said the EU stood squarely behind EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, tasked with planning all possible ways and options of how the EU could support a future national unity government.

Muscat argued that the other available option would be a military intervention, which was not the desirable action. Reiterating that there was no solution to Libya other than a political one, Muscat said the EU would help Libya in terms of policing and securitisation operations.

“The conclusions are clear and the European Council is giving a strong mandate,” Muscat said.

The Maltese Prime Minister however hinted at the possible creation of a “partial unity government” – a government of national unity which would leave out factions from both sides of Tobruk and Tripoli who refuse to collaborate.

The UN document released on Tuesday envisions “a presidential council of independent personalities”.

Bernardino Leon, head of the United Nations support mission in Libya, said the factions could agree this week on the leaders of a unity government, although warning it would prove to be a difficult discussion.

The European Union has meanwhile agreed to stand ready to make “full use of all its instruments” to help a government of national unity.

“As soon as agreement to form a Government of National Unity is found, the EU stands ready, with countries in the region and international partners, to contribute to its implementation by making full use of all its instruments,” the European Council said on Friday.

Muscat also confirmed that the situation in Libya will be discussed with President of the European Council Donald Tusk, who is set to visit Malta in the coming weeks. No confirmation date is yet available.