The UN special envoy to Libya, Stephanie Williams, announced Wednesday that she is "somewhat optimistic" about the possibility of reaching a permanent ceasefire in the country, after two days of direct negotiations between the parties to the conflict held in Geneva.

Williams based her optimism on an atmosphere of "seriousness and commitment" that characterized, according to her, the first direct talks of the Libyan Joint Military Committee, which represents the two parties to the Libyan conflict.

Williams announced that a number of concrete agreements have been reached, such as opening the main roads in the country as well as some domestic flights, which should alleviate the difficult situation experienced by the population.

Libya has been witnessing violence and a struggle for power since the fall of the regime of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

Two authorities are fighting over power: the Government of National Accord, based in the capital, Tripoli, which is recognized by the United Nations, and a parallel government in the east that has the support of Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar.

The Joint Military Committee, which emerged from an international summit held in January 2020 in Berlin, is required to define the conditions for a sustainable ceasefire, while withdrawing from military sites.