After US-Iran deal, Pakistan mediates Libya peace talks with proposed power-sharing plan

Pakistan has reportedly launched a behind-the-scenes diplomatic effort to mediate between Libya's rival eastern and western factions in an attempt to advance a political settlement aimed at reunifying the country.

According to Pakistani government sources cited by Reuters, the initiative began late last year after both Libyan sides sought Islamabad's assistance in facilitating talks. The mediation is taking place alongside broader international efforts to resolve Libya's long-running political crisis, with the United States said to be aware of and involved in the process.

The initiative is also backed by regional players including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey, according to the sources.

Proposed 36-month transition

Officials familiar with the discussions said negotiators are working on a draft framework that would establish a 36-month transitional government under a new Government of National Consensus and a Presidential Council.

Under the proposed arrangement, Abdulhamid Dbeibah, head of Libya's internationally recognised Government of National Unity (GNU) in Tripoli, would continue as prime minister during the transition.

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The proposal also envisions Saddam Haftar, deputy commander of the eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA), leading the Presidential Council. The eastern administration, which controls much of Libya's oil infrastructure, would also receive a significant role in overseeing the country's budget and oil revenues.

The proposed framework remains under negotiation and has not been officially adopted.

Pakistan's growing diplomatic role

The mediation effort comes months after Pakistan expanded its engagement with Libya through defence cooperation with the eastern-based LNA.

Last month, Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir met Saddam Haftar in Rawalpindi. Shortly afterwards, Haftar travelled to Washington for talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who reiterated American support for Libya's political unity.

Pakistani officials say the country's ties with both rival administrations have enabled it to act as a trusted intermediary.

Long road to reunification

Libya has remained politically divided since the 2011 uprising that toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi, with rival administrations in the east and west competing for control over state institutions, military forces and oil resources.

Previous international efforts to reunify the country and hold national elections have repeatedly stalled over disagreements on governance, security arrangements and the distribution of oil revenues.