After the signing of the ceasefire agreement, the intra-Libyan negotiations on the political process have now also got off to a good start. We believe there is the real opportunity here to achieve progress towards peace in Libya. I call on all Libyan actors to seize this opportunity and to support the dialogue without any preconditions.

It is with great respect that I note the announcement by Fayez al-Sarraj, Head of the Presidential Council and Prime Minister, that he intends to clear the way for a new Libyan government – to be established by the Political Dialogue Forum – and that he will step down at the end of October. This decision is an important step, and it deserves recognition.

However, against the background that political talks are getting under way, we would welcome if Mr al-Sarraj could for the time being postpone his resignation and continue to perform his duties for the duration of the Dialogue Forum. I conveyed this message also on behalf of the Federal Chancellor. In our view, this is needed to ensure that during these decisive weeks institutional and executive continuity is maintained at the head of the Libyan Government.