Progress is made in stabilizing Libya, UN envoy
Tarek Mitri addresses Security Council Meeting on the situation in Libya via video teleconference
The government and people of Libya have made progress in stabilizing the country over the last year despite challenges that still remain.
That's what the top United Nations envoy in the North African country Tarek Mitri told the Security Council during his briefing via video teleconference on Thursday.
He told the Council that there have been problems in Libya, including fighting in Bani Walid, Shati and Tripoli, as well as the attack on the United States office in Benghazi.
Mr. Mitri said that in the largest expression of indignation, on 21 September 30,000 residents of Benghazi participated in what was called a demonstration to "save Benghazi."
"The problems faced should not be underestimated but are not insurmountable. Building a democratic state is a cumulative process that needs time and patience but it necessitates, first and foremost, a sustained, coherent and determined effort by the government. One year since the liberation, the people of Libya are demanding more of their elected authorities. This is a sign of a vibrant democratic life." (Duration: 28 secs)
Mr. Mitri said that the UN Support Mission in Libya has spent the last year working closely with the government, civil society and the international to build a democratic state.
