Libya’s Interior Minister Al-Trabelsi Reports 4 Million Immigrants, Rejects Resettlement

Libya’s Interior Minister Emad Al-Trabelsi reported that there are 4 million illegal immigrants in the country, asserting that Libya cannot manage this issue independently. He emphasized that Libya will not become a resettlement area and called on EU countries to provide proper support, particularly in securing the southern borders and addressing human trafficking.

Emad Al-Trabelsi, the Minister of Interior for Libya’s Government of National Unity, disclosed that the nation currently hosts 4 million illegal immigrants. During a meeting at the Ministry of Interior, he underscored the significant security and economic challenges arising from this ongoing influx, asserting that Libya cannot shoulder this burden independently.

The meeting included ambassadors and chargé d’affaires from the European Union and African Union, along with representatives from the EU mission, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Al-Trabelsi acknowledged that the crises facing Libya complicate the immigration issue further, indicating that the rising number poses serious threats to regional security and socio-economic stability.

He emphasized the need for accountability, stating that Libya will not serve as a resettlement area, prioritizing its national sovereignty and security interests. Al-Trabelsi asserted that effective resolution of illegal immigration necessitates securing the southern borders of Libya rather than focusing solely on coastal monitoring, as advocated by the European Union.

Al-Trabelsi urged EU and other nations influenced by immigration to assume responsibility by enhancing support for Libya. This support should involve providing advanced technology for border surveillance, expediting voluntary deportations in cooperation with international organizations, and intensifying efforts to combat human trafficking and organized crime in the region.

In conclusion, Minister Emad Al-Trabelsi highlighted the pressing issue of illegal immigration in Libya, noting the presence of 4 million immigrants and the resulting security and economic challenges. He asserted that Libya cannot address this crisis alone and called for international collaboration, particularly from European nations, to enhance border security and combat illegal trafficking effectively. The emphasis on safeguarding national sovereignty and addressing root causes of immigration remains a priority for Libya.

Original Source: libyaobserver.ly