The US Special Envoy to Libya, Ambassador Richard Norland, has announced his decision to retire from diplomatic service at the end of May, bringing to a close a long and distinguished career spanning approximately 45 years in diplomacy, including six years dedicated to the complex Libyan file.
In a post on his official account, Norland stated: “After nearly 45 years in the diplomatic service, and six years as US Ambassador to Libya, then Special Envoy to Libya, I have completed my service and will retire at the end of May.”
Ambassador Norland expressed his profound gratitude to the Libyan officials and citizens from across the country with whom he had the privilege of meeting and collaborating during his tenure in Libya. He particularly commended their tireless and sincere efforts in supporting the path of peace, reconciliation, and national unity in the country.
Ambassador Norland also extended his thanks and appreciation to the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) and to his fellow foreign diplomats with whom he worked closely in Libya. He singled out the staff of the US Embassy in Libya, led by Chargé d’Affaires Jeremy Brent, praising their exceptional professionalism in supporting US diplomacy in Libya. In concluding his post, Norland affirmed that the United States will continue its commitment to supporting the Libyan people throughout the country, in the east, west, and south, in their noble endeavours to unify their nation and build a strong, secure, and prosperous partnership between the Libyan and American peoples.