AU plays waiting game on Libya

2011-08-22 20:11

Addis Ababa - The African Union Peace and Security Council on Monday wrapped up a preparatory meeting on the Libya conflict, delaying any decisions until another session due later in the week.

"They exchanged information," spokesperson Noureddine Mezni told reporters, after one-and-a-half hours of talks between African ambassadors to the AU and other officials.

"They had a lot of discussion on Libya, and they decided not to issue a statement because we will have a meeting in two days time."

AU chairperson Jean Ping also spoke via telephone to UN chief Ban Ki-moon, as Libyan rebels advanced in Tripoli and vowed to topple Muammar Gaddafi's 42-year hold on power.

"They agreed to work closely together to help the Libyan people during this phase," Mezni added. "It is important now to work closely to secure a smooth transition."

The AU High Level Committee on Libya will meet Thursday to discuss the crisis on the eve of a Peace and Security Council meeting on August 26, which includes heads of state from Zimbabwe, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa.

It was not clear who would be in attendance.

The committee last met in Istanbul in May, where Ping called for a peaceful solution to the conflict.

"Only a political solution will make it possible to fulfil the legitimate aspirations of the Libyan people for democracy, good governance and the rule of law, and promote lasting peace in the country," the AU said in a statement.

- SAPA