Libyans ‘cannot face alone’ crisis caused by floods: UN envoy

By Abdelsalam Fayez

TRIPOLI, Libya (AA) - The UN envoy to Libya on Friday said the North African country “cannot face alone” the crisis caused by devastating floods.

In a statement, Abdoulaye Bathily said that the scale of damages and losses from the floods that badly hit Libya's eastern region "is beyond our collective imagination."

The UN envoy hailed collective efforts by Libyans in responding to the crisis.

"The Libyan people have set a great example of unity, compassion and resilience in the face of this devastating tragedy," Bathily said.

“Today, I see one united Libya, no east, west, or south,” he said and urged all Libyan authorities and institutions to continue coordinating their response efforts.

Libya has for years faced a crisis over a power struggle, as the country is divided between two governments; one is internationally recognized in the western part of the country, and the other is appointed by the Libyan parliament and rules the eastern region.

Bathily also voiced gratitude to the countries that have "sent rescue teams, equipment, and life-saving supplies to help Libya in this difficult time."

At least 6,000 people have been killed and thousands of others remain missing due to the weekend floods in eastern Libya, according to official figures.

Torrential rains from Storm Daniel swept several areas on Sunday in eastern Libya, most notably Benghazi, Al-Bayda and Al-Marj, as well as Soussa and Derna.

*Writing by Ahmed Asmar and Ikram Kouachi