Strasbourg, 15 July, 2014 - Events taking place in Libya in the last 48 hours with the violent clash between various Libyan militias, which forced the shutdown of the Tripoli airport and also that of Misrata, bear evidence of poor EU engagement in the country after the downfall of the Gaddafi regime over three years ago.

The commitment of the European Union with the Libyan people is falling short of the needs of the security and stabilisation that are needed for an environment that is conducive to democratic transition. The CSDP mission which is currently in place and working in the field of border security is conspicuously insufficient given the internal security challenges Libya faces. Also, it is of the utmost importance that the EU positions itself to commit to effective institution and capacity building, which is consistent with the numerous calls by the Libyan authorities asking for assistance.

The Libyan government has said, in the aftermath of the clash between militias at the Tripoli airport yesterday and the continued fighting last night, with several rockets having reportedly been fired at the airport, that the authorities are considering asking for international assistance to secure the territory. The EU must stand ready to answer Libya's call.

I urge all of the parties in conflict to halt the fighting and to commit to a free, secure and safe Libya, which is the only way the country can design a true path towards democracy and the rule of law. All in the EU should realise that Libya's security is also Europe's security

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