Emad Al-Trabelsi, Libya’s Interior Minister, stated that the country hosts 4 million illegal immigrants and cannot manage this issue alone amidst economic and security challenges. He emphasized that Libya will not become a resettlement zone and called for international support to secure its borders and combat trafficking and smuggling operations.
Emad Al-Trabelsi, Libya’s Minister of Interior within the Government of National Unity, disclosed that the nation is currently hosting approximately 4 million illegal immigrants. During a meeting at the Ministry of Interior, he articulated that Libya is unable to shoulder this burden independently, particularly amidst the ongoing security and economic hardships caused by the influx of immigrants.
The meeting was attended by various ambassadors and chargé d’affaires from European Union and African Union embassies, along with representatives from the EU mission, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
Al-Trabelsi noted that the crises confronting Libya are exacerbating the situation, thereby complicating the management of immigration. He underscored that the continuous influx of immigrants poses serious security and economic challenges, warning that “the continued flow of immigrants without controls will lead to the deterioration of security and social conditions, not only in Libya but throughout the entire region.”
Emphasizing Libya’s stance, Al-Trabelsi stated that the country would not become a resettlement zone for illegal immigration. He asserted that Libyan sovereignty and national security priorities must come before any other concerns. The Minister called for a comprehensive strategy to address the immigration crisis, suggesting that securing Libya’s southern borders should be prioritized over the EU’s current focus on coastal monitoring.
Al-Trabelsi urged EU nations and other countries affected by this immigration phenomenon to take responsibility. He advocated for strengthening security measures at Libya’s southern fronts, proposing the provision of advanced equipment and technologies for monitoring illegal movements, expediting voluntary deportations in collaboration with international bodies, and enforcing strict measures against human trafficking and smuggling networks.
In conclusion, Emad Al-Trabelsi’s declaration highlights the significant challenges Libya faces due to its status as a transit country for millions of illegal immigrants. As Libya grapples with these issues, the Minister’s call for shared responsibility and support from the international community underscores the need for collaborative efforts to enhance border security and tackle organized crime. The reaffirmation of Libya’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty is essential in addressing this complex crisis effectively.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
