Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar received Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis in Benghazi on Saturday for a meeting dedicated to strengthening bilateral relations between Libya and Greece.
According to a statement from the General Command of the Eastern Libyan Forces, the discussions focused primarily on coordination in the fight against illegal immigration, as well as on reconstruction and investment prospects within the country. This meeting is part of an intensification of diplomatic contacts between Athens and the authorities in eastern Libya, occurring within a regional context marked by significant migratory pressure in the Mediterranean. Deputy Commander-in-Chief Saddam Haftar also participated in the discussions, emphasizing the strategic importance that local authorities attach to this partnership.
In statements released following the meeting, George Gerapetritis affirmed that the visit reflects Greece’s desire to strengthen ties with Libya and noted significant progress in the relationship between the two nations. He highlighted the specific interest of specialized Greek companies in participating in infrastructure and reconstruction projects, as well as the development of academic collaborations, particularly with the University of Benghazi. On the economic front, the two sides explored ways to strengthen trade and discussed reopening maritime links to facilitate the flow of goods across the Mediterranean, reflecting a shared desire to establish more regular economic flows despite the region’s ongoing instability.
The talks also placed a heavy emphasis on the need for increased coordination in managing migration flows, with both parties highlighting the importance of joint mechanisms to address security and humanitarian challenges. This cooperation is part of a broader regional approach involving several neighboring countries. Following his time in Benghazi, the Greek minister is scheduled to travel to Tripoli next Wednesday to meet with other Libyan officials. This diplomatic sequence follows Egyptian-Greek consultations held earlier in March, during which both countries reaffirmed their support for a Libyan political process leading to simultaneous parliamentary and presidential elections.
MK/AK/Sf/fss/abj/APA