EU leaders meeting today in Malta to discuss external aspects of migration, with a focus on the Central Mediterranean route leading to Europe, agreed to further support Libya to achieve stability and to acquire control over the land and sea borders and to combat transit and smuggling activities.

“The EU remains committed to an inclusive political settlement under the framework of the Libyan Political Agreement and to supporting the Presidency Council and the Government of National Accord backed by the United Nations. Where possible the EU and Member States will also step up cooperation with and assistance to Libyan regional and local communities and with international organisations active in the country,” said the Malta Declaration.

The Declaration stated that priority will be given, among other elements, to training, equipment and support to the Libyan national coast guard and other relevant agencies; further efforts to disrupt the business model of smugglers through enhanced operational action; supporting the development of local communities in Libya to improve their socio-economic situation and enhance their resilience as host communities; enhancing cooperation with and support to the UNHCR and IOM and helping to reduce the pressure on Libya’s land borders by working both with the Libyan authorities and all neighbours of Libya.

EU leaders welcomed the Commission’s decision to mobilise as a first step an additional €200 million for the North Africa window of the Fund and to give priority to migration-related projects concerning Libya, to cover the most urgent funding needs now and throughout 2017.

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Malta Declaration

Remarks by Mogherini 

EEAS – Libya

EU-Libya relations

EU Neighbours South – Libya

EU Delegation to Libya – website and Facebook page