By Libya Herald reporter.
Benghazi, 5 October 2016:
Former boycotting member of the Presidency Council Ali Gatrani was told today by Italian foreign minister Paolo Gentiloni that Field Marshal Khalifa Hafter should have “an appropriate role in managing the country’s security” in the new government.
Gatrani, who is close to Hafter, and who was in Rome for talks with Italian officials, was also commended by Gentiloni for having rejoined the PC after more than six months’s absence.
He was also told, though, that Italy would continue to “staunchly and resolutely” support the Libyan Political Agreement and all institutions established under it. He was further encouraged by his host to personally work to overcome the current crisis and ensure the formation of the new government.
“Only by reinforcing the institutions, which are the product of the political agreement, and by uniting all security forces, will Libya make the progress we all expect on the road to long-lasting peace and stability,” Gentiloni said.
Like his French counterpart, Gentoloni has increasingly stressed the need for the PC to make compromises with Hafter if it is to succeed.
