Warring factions in Libya sign accord for permanent ceasefire

The warring factions in Libya have signed an agreement for a permanent ceasefire to end the years of violence.

The agreement was reached in Geneva following five days of talks.

It was brokered by the United Nations between military leaders from Libya’s government, and those from opposition forces lead by General Khalifa Haftar.

The UN envoy to Libya envoy Stephanie Williams has called the agreement “a crucial sign of hope for the Libyan people”.

The AFP quotes the envoy saying that the ceasefire will allow displaced people and refugees to return to their homes.

All the parties have agreed that all military units and armed groups on the front lines shall return to their camps.

This will be accompanied by the departure of all mercenaries and foreign fighters from all Libyan territory, land, air and sea within a maximum period of three months.

Another crucial deal that is needed is a political agreement to restore proper governance system to Libya.

Libya has been torn by violence since Col Muammar Gaddafi was deposed by Nato-backed forces in 2011.

The oil-rich nation is a key transit point for migrants heading to Europe from Africa.