Pakistan has reportedly launched a diplomatic initiative to help mediate Libya's prolonged political conflict, proposing a 36-month power-sharing framework aimed at reunifying the country after years of division between rival eastern and western administrations.

According to a Reuters report citing Pakistani government sources, the mediation effort began late last year after both Libyan factions sought Islamabad's assistance in facilitating negotiations. The initiative is being coordinated alongside broader international diplomatic efforts, with the United States said to be aware of and engaged in the process.

Regional powers, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey, are also reportedly supporting the negotiations.

Proposed Transitional Government

Officials familiar with the discussions said negotiators are working on a draft agreement that would establish a Government of National Consensus and a Presidential Council to oversee a 36-month transition before national elections.

Under the proposed framework, Abdulhamid Dbeibah, head of Libya's internationally recognised Government of National Unity (GNU) based in Tripoli, would remain prime minister during the transitional period.

The proposal also envisions Saddam Haftar, deputy commander of the eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA), leading the Presidential Council. The eastern administration would receive a greater role in managing Libya's national budget and overseeing revenues generated from the country's vital oil sector.

Officials stressed that the framework remains under negotiation and has not yet been formally accepted by the rival sides.

Pakistan Expands Diplomatic Profile

The mediation effort reflects Pakistan's growing diplomatic engagement in North Africa following increased defence cooperation with Libya's eastern administration.

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

Pakistani officials believe Islamabad's working relationship with both rival Libyan administrations positions it as a credible intermediary capable of facilitating dialogue.

Libya's Political Divide Continues

Libya has remained politically fragmented since the 2011 uprising that overthrew longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi. The country has since been governed by rival administrations in the east and west, each backed by different military groups and foreign allies.

Repeated international efforts led by the United Nations and other stakeholders to unify Libya and conduct nationwide elections have failed due to disagreements over constitutional arrangements, security reforms and the sharing of oil revenues.

Diplomatic observers believe any durable settlement will require consensus on power-sharing, institutional reforms and equitable management of Libya's energy resources.

Global Attention on Regional Diplomacy

Pakistan's reported mediation comes amid renewed diplomatic activity across the Middle East and North Africa following recent efforts to reduce regional tensions.

While the proposed transition plan remains at a preliminary stage, its success will depend on whether Libya's rival factions can reach political consensus after years of conflict and failed negotiations.