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Libyans must reach deal or see destruction: UN

United Nations Special Representative and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya Bernardino Leon

United Nations special envoy to Libya says Libyans have to choose between reaching a political agreement to end its current crisis, or witness the North African country’s destruction.

The United Nations Special Representative and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya Bernardino Leon made the remarks in Algeria on Tuesday.

"There are two options: a political accord or destruction," Leon said at the start of talks in Algiers, adding that "destruction is not an option."

Leon brokered direct talks held on March 4-7 in the Moroccan city of Skhirat between Libya's internationally recognized government, which is based in the eastern city of Bayda, and a rival parliament in Tripoli.

The comments by Leon come as another round of talks is underway in the Algerian capital of Algiers.

The UN official managed to bring together 15 Libyan political figures and heads of political parties to take part in the “forum of political parties” in Algeria.

UN attempts to broker an agreement between the rival governments have been stepped up due to the recent rise of groups allied to Takfiri militants and a steady flow of African migrants traveling to Europe from Libya.

Libya plunged into chaos after the ouster of longtime dictator, Muammar Gaddafi, which gave rise to a patchwork of heavily-armed militias and deep political divisions. Three years on, the country is still struggling with insecurity.

The oil-rich nation has been the scene of numerous clashes between government forces and rival militant groups that refuse to lay down arms.

SZH/HSN/SS


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