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European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations (DG NEAR)
News article31 March 2020Directorate-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations

Libya: EU launches EUNAVFOR MED Operation IRINI

Today, the EU has launched the Common Security and Defence Policy operation EUNAVFOR MED IRINI. Named after the Greek Goddess of Peace, Operation IRINI is the result of the commitment that EU leaders took at the Berlin Conference to ensure urgent and...

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Today, the EU has launched the Common Security and Defence Policy operation EUNAVFOR MED IRINI. Named after the Greek Goddess of Peace, Operation IRINI is the result of the commitment that EU leaders took at the Berlin Conference to ensure urgent and concrete actions to contribute to peace and stability in Libya. For Libya to return to stability, the European Union needs to do its share to help the Libyans to create the conditions for a lasting ceasefire. To do this, Operation IRINI will deploy aerial, naval and satellite assets to ensure an active implementation of the UN arms embargo off the Libyan coast in the Mediterranean, together with some other tasks. To mark the launch of the Operation, the High Representative/Vice-President Borrell delivered a press statement today. High Representative Josep Borrell said: “Diplomacy cannot succeed unless it is backed by action. The UN arms embargo on Libya needs to be effectively enforced. This is essential for a permanent ceasefire. And with this operation the EU will play its part. Launching IRINI is a strong signal of the EU's commitment to support the Berlin process, restore stability in Libya and bring peace to its population.” You can find more information on the new Operation in the press release published today.

For more information:

Peter Stano – Tel.: +32 229 54553
Xavier Cifre Quatresols – Tel.: +32 229 73582

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