Richard Norland, the U.S. Ambassador to Libya, stated in media remarks that the mission emphasizes the need for rapid solutions to emerge from the current situation. He noted that the recent decision by the Libyan Presidential Council to dismiss the governor was a unilateral action and, unfortunately, part of a pattern of unilateral measures taken by eastern and western parties in recent weeks and months.

Norland added that, from the mission’s perspective, the U.S. position is that Libyans need swift actions to restore confidence in the leadership of the Central Bank, allowing for normal international financial transactions and the importation of goods and medicines into Libya, thus avoiding an economic crisis.

The U.S. ambassador expressed concerns that the raid on the financial intelligence unit and the seizure of its records raised fears about anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing efforts. Questions are now being raised about accountability and the credibility of the involved leadership in relation to international financial partners.

Norland also highlighted the important role Cairo has played recently in bringing together the two chambers (the 6+6 Committee) and other efforts to reach an agreement on key constitutional understandings. Morocco has similarly played a role in this context, leading to what he considers clear progress that can be built upon.

He explained that the efforts of the United Nations were halted due to the resignation of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General.