The United Nations envoy to Libya says the country’s rival factions will meet in April to set dates for preliminary and presidential elections.
Ghassan Salame made the announcement on Wednesday, saying that some 120 to 150 Libyans will take part in the meeting that will be held in Ghadames, near the border with Algeria, on 14-16 April.
The UN envoy said the meeting will be attended by representatives of rival authorities in the east and west, and will not include any foreign parties.
He added that the UN hoped for “a new beginning for the country for stability.”
The elections are seen as a crucial step in realizing lasting peace in the troubled North African country.
Libya descended into chaos in 2011 following the ouster and killing of long-serving leader Muammar Gaddafi.
Gaddafi’s death created a political vacuum that various militant factions sought to take advantage of.
The resultant chaos killed thousands and displaced millions others, prompting regional and international players to move in to help quell the situation.
The main factions signed a UN-backed deal last year, which will ultimately lead to elections and the formation of a unity government.
