Libya’s Tripoli based Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation called on its Russian counterpart to provide urgent clarification on the motives and reasons for warning its citizens from travelling to Libya.
The matter seems to have arisen from the fact that the Tripoli authorities had arrested a Russian citizen deemed a threat to security.
The Foreign Ministry said the measures taken against a Russian citizen were carried out in accordance with Libyan laws and legislation, in full coordination with the Attorney General’s Office, and under the supervision of the Deterrence Service for Combating Terrorism and Organized Crime.
It revealed that preliminary investigations indicate that the person concerned is involved in activities that harm public order and aim to corrupt Libyan youth, in addition to having links with foreign armed groups operating in Africa.
The Foreign Ministry stressed that these measures come within the framework of maintaining national security and reject any attempt to harm the image of stability and security achieved by the Tripoli government with tireless efforts during the past period.
It added that it renews its commitment to the rule of law and the protection of citizens and guests of Libya, and affirms its keenness to enhance constructive cooperation with all friendly countries, stressing that diplomatic dialogue is the basis for resolving any outstanding issues in a way that serves common interests and respects the sovereignty and laws of countries.
