Pakistan has quietly begun efforts to mediate between Libya's rival political factions in a move that could expand Islamabad's diplomatic role on the global stage, according to a Reuters report citing two Pakistani sources familiar with the matter. The initiative comes as international efforts intensify to resolve Libya's long-running political divide and establish a unified governing framework in the conflict-hit North African nation.

Libya has remained divided between rival administrations based in the country's east and west since the civil war that followed the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that removed longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi. The political split has led to years of instability, with competing governments, armed groups and foreign interests influencing the country's future. Multiple international initiatives have attempted to bring the opposing sides together, but a lasting political settlement has remained elusive.

According to the Reuters report, Pakistan's mediation effort has received backing from several international partners. The United States is reportedly "fully aware and involved" in the initiative, while Saudi Arabia is also supporting Islamabad's role. Pakistani sources cited in the report said Qatar and Turkey have also encouraged Pakistan to participate in efforts aimed at bridging differences between Libya's eastern and western power centres.

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Pakistan's foreign ministry, its military media wing, Libyan officials and the foreign ministries of the United States, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comments on the reported mediation efforts. The details of Islamabad's involvement and the extent of discussions with Libyan factions remain unclear.

The reported initiative includes a proposed "Libya Reunification Plan", which outlines a 36-month transitional power-sharing arrangement under a proposed Government of National Consensus and Presidential Council, according to the Reuters report. The framework is intended to create a pathway towards political reconciliation and address the institutional divisions that have prevented Libya from achieving stable governance.

Libya's political crisis has continued for more than a decade, with disagreements over elections, control of state institutions, security arrangements and the distribution of national resources contributing to the ongoing divide. The country possesses significant oil reserves, making stability in Libya important not only for its citizens but also for regional and international energy markets. For Pakistan, a successful mediation effort could strengthen its diplomatic standing and demonstrate its ability to play a role in resolving international conflicts beyond South Asia.

Islamabad has historically maintained relations with several Middle Eastern and North African countries and has sought to expand its diplomatic engagement through political and economic partnerships. The reported mediation effort comes at a time when global powers and regional actors are seeking new approaches to resolve prolonged conflicts through dialogue and negotiated settlements. If Pakistan succeeds in bringing Libya's rival factions closer to a political agreement, it could mark a significant achievement for Islamabad's foreign policy and enhance its influence in international diplomacy.

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