LONDON, United Kingdom, April 18, 2016/APO (African Press Organization)/ —
Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond visited Tripoli on Monday 18 April, in a show of support for Prime Minister Fayez al Serraj and the new Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA).
This visit follows the recent arrival of the GNA in Tripoli and is the first visit of a Foreign Secretary since 2011 and since the evacuation of the British Embassy in 2014.
In meetings, the Foreign Secretary discussed the GNA’s priorities on security, rebuilding the economy and restoring public services for the benefit of all Libyans. He also discussed their plans to tackle the threat of Da’esh and countering people trafficking.
During the visit the Foreign Secretary also announced £10 million funding to support the GNA. This includes £1.5million for tackling illegal migration, smuggling and organised crime, and £1.8 million to support counter-terrorism activities.
Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said:
“Britain and its allies fully support Prime Minister Fayez Serraj and his government as they restore peace and stability to the whole of Libya. We stand ready to provide further assistance to Libya and its people.
“Britain is at the forefront of the international community’s efforts to stabilise Libya and is committing an extra £10 million to help the Government of National Accord strengthen political institutions, the economy, security, and justice. This fund builds on our existing support to Libya of £11.5 million last year for development and humanitarian assistance.
“I welcome the continued efforts of Prime Minister Fayez Serraj and members of the Presidency Council to make progress on security, rebuilding the economy and restoring public services for the benefit of all Libyans.”
