UN envoy hails accord between Libyan cities

UN special envoy in Libya Martin Kobler Thursday welcomed a reconciliation agreement between Misrata and Tawergha, two Libyan cities, in Tunis under the auspices of the UN Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), a UN spokesman told reporters here.

The agreement is aimed at ensuring the safe return of more than 40,000 displaced from Tawergha scattered across Libya, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said.

Under the deal, the victims of the 2011 conflict involving Misrata and Tawergha will also receive compensation and perpetrators will be brought to justice, the spokesman added.

Representatives from Misrata and Tawergha signed the agreement on Wednesday after they agreed on the return of the displaced people to their homes in Tawergha and on the compensations that should be given to both cities regarding the damage that was caused to both in the 2011 incidents, reports said.

"After five years in very difficult conditions, it is heartening to know that the Tawerghans have finally a real chance to return before the end of the year," said Kobler.

"Misratans were also victims of this conflict and have every right to seek compensation," he said.

Meanwhile, the UN envoy also urged the two sides to ensure that the rights of return and compensations are implemented without conditions.

UNSMIL stands ready to work with both sides and the Government of National Accord to ensure that the implementation of the agreement is fully consistent with international human rights standards. Endit