Al-Trabelsi, Libya’s Minister of Interior, stated that there are 4 million illegal immigrants in the country, urging for international assistance and emphasizing that Libya will not act as a resettlement zone. He called for securing Libya’s southern borders to address the immigration crisis effectively.
Emad Al-Trabelsi, the Minister of Interior for Libya’s Government of National Unity, disclosed during a recent meeting that the nation currently hosts approximately 4 million illegal immigrants. This gathering, held at the Ministry of Interior, involved representatives from the European Union and African Union, as well as members from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
Al-Trabelsi articulated that the ongoing crises in Libya exacerbate the challenges surrounding immigration, highlighting that this substantial number poses significant security and economic threats. He cautioned that the unchecked influx of immigrants could further compromise security and social conditions within Libya and the broader region.
The Interior Minister made it clear that Libya cannot shoulder the burden of illegal immigration alone. He asserted that the country will not become a resettlement zone, prioritizing Libyan sovereignty and national security. Al-Trabelsi maintained that addressing the root causes of illegal immigration necessitates securing Libya’s southern borders, in addition to monitoring coastal areas, which is often the focus of the European Union.
Furthermore, Al-Trabelsi urged EU countries and other affected nations to acknowledge their responsibility and assist Libya by enhancing security measures at its southern boundaries. This assistance should include providing modern surveillance equipment, expediting the voluntary repatriation of illegal immigrants in collaboration with international organizations, and intensifying efforts to dismantle human trafficking and smuggling networks.
In summary, Emad Al-Trabelsi’s statements highlight the significant challenges that Libya faces with the influx of illegal immigrants, which has reached approximately 4 million. He emphasizes the need for international cooperation to address this issue while ensuring Libya’s national security and sovereignty are prioritized. Al-Trabelsi calls for tangible support from the international community to effectively manage immigration and combat associated criminal activities.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
