Libya and Italy: A new start for improved economic and security relations

The two sides discussed bilateral relations between the two friendly countries, as well as a variety of political and economic issues, as well as the promotion of collaborative efforts.

Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi reiterated his country’s commitment to remaining “on Libya’s side” and assisting it in its “complex transition” toward stability and democracy under the leadership of his counterpart in the Government of National Unity, Abdelhamid Dabeiba and describing cooperation between Rome and Tripoli as “more fertile and vibrant than ever.”

Draghi told reporters following a meeting with the Dabeiba: “We discussed migration and humanitarian issues that are a priority for Libya and Italy,” including “controlling the Libyan and southern borders, combating human trafficking, assisting refugees and rural community development.”

Draghi added that during his counterpart’s present visit to Rome, which was organized in conjunction with a high-level ministerial delegation at the Italian-Libyan Business Forum at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Farnesina Palace, there was also discussion of energy cooperation.

“Libya is already a significant energy partner, but only in conventional energy. The question of establishing cooperation in the sphere of renewable energies has been considered for a long time, and our companies are prepared to undertake initiatives in this regard,” The Italian Prime Minister stated today.

On his end in his address to the Italian-Libyan Business Forum, Dabeiba emphasized the critical nature of Italian companies resuming operations in Libya and pressed for the speedy reopening of European airspace to and from Libya in order to resurrect the economy.

Additionally, he stated that Libya was looking forward to collaborating with Italy, one of his country’s best partners, on a variety of issues, including energy, economic reform, and migration.

Libya’s Prime Minister arrived in Italy today on an official visit, accompanied by a ministerial delegation representing the Government of National Unity to hold meetings with their Italian counterparts and address issues of mutual interest between the two governments.