The Chairman of the Board of Directors of Libya National Oil Company (NOC) Mustafa Sanalla stated that they are currently considering declaring the state of force majeure within 72 hours unless production and shipping can resume at the oil ports in the Gulf of Sirte.

They recommend that all parties exercise caution and give priority to the interests of the country, not to be dragged into escalation, and they encourage everyone to abide by Libya’s sovereignty.

Sanalla added: “We are facing a recurring reality, there are closures in the Gulf of Sirte region, and there are those who are trying to demonize the oil sector in the capital Tripoli, but we will not stand idly by and we will address them in accordance with legal frameworks.”

Adding that the government owes its sovereignty to its institutions, and there should be no tolerance for any individual or minister who politicizes the oil sector or uses it as a tool for any negotiation, bargaining, or settlements. Moreover, they do not accept compliance in one respect while turning a blind eye to compliance in another.

In a related context, Sanalla assured that he is not a politician, but he can show them the right direction. Libya’s stability starts from managing its resources and you will find the oil sector enthusiastic to work and play its technical and non-political role motivated by the understanding of the genuine politicians on the particularities of this vital sector and its role in the present and future of the country.

The Chairman of the Board of Directors welcomed the content of the five countries’ statements, commenting that he is very pleased with their assurance that Libya’s resources must be managed in an open and transparent manner throughout the country, and for the benefit of the Libyan people.