Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
It was announced in Brussels that the current Czech ambassador to Tunisia, Jan Fenstahl, was appointed head of the European Union Border Assistance Mission in Libya. He previously served as his country’s ambassador to Iraq and Libya.
The announcement came late yesterday evening and was preceded several hours by a meeting between the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, in Brussels with Musa Al-Koni, Vice President of the Libyan Presidential Council. The discussion focused on how to strengthen ongoing cooperation between the European Union and Libya in key areas, including improving migration governance and management, as well as regional cooperation between Libya and the Sahel.
During the talks, the High Representative highlighted the importance of making progress in the political process to overcome the current situation in Libya. In this context, Borrell also affirmed the European Union's support for reaching a UN-brokered political solution, based on a comprehensive dialogue between all Libyan stakeholders, ultimately aiming to hold elections.
The European Union will continue to stand by the Libyan people and support them in their aspirations to live in a stable, peaceful and prosperous country.
Jan Visital was appointed Head of the European Union Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM) in Libya. He will succeed Natalina Sia as of January 1, 2024, and his term will continue until June 30, 2025.
Jan Visital is a Czech civil servant and diplomat, who has worked at a senior level for more than 20 years, and is currently the Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Tunisia, accredited to Libya. He previously served as the Czech Ambassador to Iraq and Libya.
The European Union Border Assistance Mission in Libya was launched in May 2013. The mission contributes to strengthening the capacity of the relevant Libyan authorities and agencies in managing Libya’s borders; combating cross-border crime, including human trafficking and migrant smuggling; And combating terrorism. In implementing its tasks, EUBAM provides technical advice and capacity-building activities at operational and technical levels, including projects and specialized training. Furthermore, the Mission provides strategic advice when requested by the Libyan authorities.
On 26 June 2023, the Council adopted resolution (CFSP) 2023/1305, which extended the mandate of the European Union Border Assistance Mission in Libya until 30 June 2025. The decision was taken by the Political and Security Committee, which includes representatives of EU Member States.,