On 2 October, Italy’s Foreign Minister Enzo Moavero Milanesi stated that Italy will hold an international conference on Libya in the Sicilian capital of Palermo on 12 and 13 November. The meeting intends to gather key Libyan and international figures in an effort to bring together opposing forces and forge dialogue. The Foreign Minister said the meeting is aimed at restoring peace and facilitating an inclusive political process in the lead up to potential elections, and stated that “No deadlines will be imposed or tasks set for the Libyans”. This statement is likely to be in response to France imposing a fixed date of 10 December for holding national elections, a move which Italy has widely criticized.