TRIPOLI, June 1 (Xinhua) -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Libya's Government of National Unity reaffirmed on Monday its firm adherence to national principles of rejecting irregular migrants' settlement on its territory, stressing at the same time the importance of safeguarding national security and respecting international laws and obligations.
In a press statement, the ministry said it was closely monitoring social media discussions expressing concerns among some citizens over the increasing flows of irregular migration and the resulting security, economic, social, and health implications.
The ministry reiterated its firm and declared position based on the principle of "no to settlement," while also reaffirming citizens' right to express their views in accordance with the interim constitutional declaration and applicable legislation.
It called on citizens and media outlets to verify the accuracy and objectivity of content published on social media platforms, and to avoid rumors or content that could harm national interests or suggest violations of the law.
The statement comes amid growing public and rights-based debates in Libya rejecting European Union policies on migrant returns or what some local actors describe as attempts to settle migrants in the country.
The European Union member states have been in talks to reach a deal on a migration reform to create so-called "return hubs" outside the bloc. Some media reports said that the EU has zoomed in on several nations, including Libya.
