UN, Washington call for Libyan talks to resolve Central Bank crisis

The United Nations and the US have called for an “urgent” meeting of Libyan political leaders to address the crisis of the Central Bank of Libya (BCL) and the blockade of oil production and exports.

The UN Support Mission in Libya expressed “deep concern” over the worsening situation and convened a meeting to seek a resolution based on political agreements, legal principles, and BCL independence. The US Embassy in Libya called this proposal a viable solution to the BCL crisis.

Libya remains divided since Muammar Gaddafi’s fall in 2011, with rival governments in Tripoli, led by Abdelhamid Dbeibah and recognized by the UN, and in the east, supported by Marshal Khalifa Haftar. Following the western authorities’ removal of BCL Governor el-Kebir, eastern factions halted oil production and exports.

A new BCL management team has been appointed, but there are doubts about its effectiveness as the institution remains inactive. Governor el-Kebir, in office since 2012, faced criticism from Dbeibah’s camp for alleged bias towards Haftar.

The UN has called for the suspension of unilateral actions regarding the BCL, ensuring the safety of its employees, and lifting the oil blockade. The US Embassy condemned reports of arbitrary arrests and intimidation of BCL staff.