This Weekly News Roundup presents key developments in Libya from February 28, 2025, including the visit of Takala with an HCS delegation, calls for urgent parliamentary elections, and reports from HRW on migrant returns. Key diplomatic meetings involved Haftar and Macron, while the GNU responds to political challenges and emergency situations. Enhancements in various sectors, such as energy and education, are evident, illustrating Libya’s active engagement on multiple fronts.
The Weekly News Roundup for February 28, 2025, highlights significant developments in Libya and its interactions with various international entities. Takala visits Nouakchott with an HCS delegation to enhance diplomatic relations. The House of Representatives (HoR) is urging the parallel government to assist victims of the Al-Asabaa fires. Furthermore, General Haftar met with French President Macron in Paris to discuss collaborative efforts.
In a push for elections, the HoR’s Deputy Speaker calls for urgent parliamentary elections. The Human Rights Watch (HRW) reports that over 3,800 migrants were forcibly returned to Libya in the past three months, indicating ongoing human rights concerns. The head of the High National Elections Commission (HNEC) met with Al-Koni to assess preparations for upcoming municipal elections.
Egypt released Libyan activist Al-Hawari after two weeks of detention, which may ease tensions between the two nations. Additionally, Western military forces have secured key locations in Janzour without any conflict. Ras Lanuf Port is preparing to resume maritime operations, which could help stabilize Libya’s economy.
Libya’s Foreign Minister engaged with EU ambassadors to discuss ongoing political developments. In response to attacks in Janzour, the West Coast Military Zone has vowed appropriate action against aggressors. The HNEC reiterates that over 3,800 migrants were returned forcibly to Libya, emphasizing the humanitarian crisis.
Mellitah Oil and Gas Company has resumed operations at gas well CC18, crucial for Libya’s energy sector. In a collaborative effort, Libya and Italy are advancing a submarine cable project to connect major cities, enhancing telecommunications. The UN envoy and the HoR Speaker are emphasizing the need for a unified executive authority to stabilize Libya’s governance.
The Government of National Unity (GNU) has established an emergency response room following the Al-Asabaa fires, demonstrating a proactive governance approach. Dbeibah and the Qatari Emir have agreed to resume flights between Libya and Qatar this October. The Joint Military Commission is alerting against the spread of hate speech in Libya, which poses risks to social cohesion.
US Air Force operations aim to bolster military integration in Libya, while the country has granted free study seats to Palestinian students, expanding educational opportunities. The UN envoy underscored the urgency of international consensus for supporting a Libyan-led political process, reasserting commitment to national reconciliation.
Highlighting women’s significant role in Libya’s economic sectors, a Libyan minister addressed this at the Sharjah Summit. Meanwhile, prosecutors identified a suspect in the attempted assassination of a government minister. Turkish investors show interest in Libyan ventures, signaling potential economic growth.
A UNESCO delegation is currently assessing the conditions at Sabrata, while Libya’s Menfi supported Somalia’s bid for a UN Security Council seat. Egypt is advocating for discussions on reforming the Government of National Unity during a Cairo meeting. The Qatari PM hosted Dbeibah to explore investments and aviation cooperation.
Libyan naval personnel have successfully completed training on Turkish task force ships, which enhances maritime capabilities. Discussions are ongoing between Libya and Morocco to boost bilateral ties. Furthermore, Libya has expressed interest in hosting the AIPU headquarters in Benghazi, highlighting its strategic aspirations.
In sports, Libya secured a victory over Cape Verde, qualifying for AfroBasket 2025. The Jumhouria Bank is offering free POS devices to promote the business sector. The government has formed task forces to tackle a locust outbreak in southern cities, showcasing commitment to agricultural health.
The Central Bank of Libya’s Governor urges the swift passage of laws against money laundering and terrorism financing. Meanwhile, a Turkish economic delegation reviewed opportunities to bolster exports to Libya during their recent visit. Bilateral cooperation was also a primary topic in discussions between Libya’s economy minister and Italy’s ambassador.
In Cairo, the HoR and High Council of State convened to determine the process for forming a new government. The British Under-Secretary of State is expected to visit Libya in April to discuss various concerns. Libya and Somalia signed a memorandum of cooperation to enhance ties between their municipalities, showcasing international collaboration.
The UN has reaffirmed its support for Libyan elections and stability, while Libya continues to pursue healthcare cooperation with the EU amid ongoing reforms. Notably, Turkey’s exports to Africa reached $1.5 billion in January, emphasizing its growing economic involvement in North Africa. UNESCO’s interest in reopening its office in Tripoli is a positive indication of renewed cultural exchanges.
Dbeibah has responded to statements made by the HoR Speaker at a meeting of Arab parliaments, indicating ongoing political dialogues. The EU’s commitment to supporting primary healthcare is also reaffirmed, aiming to strengthen Libya’s health infrastructure. In international matters, Trump extended the US state of emergency regarding Libya for another year, while Russia announced a gasoline export ban affecting several countries, including Libya.
The UN Development Programme (UNDP) is preparing for the opening of the historic Qasr Al-Akhyar Palace, which could enhance cultural tourism. Menfi has been engaged in discussions to devise strategies to resolve Libya’s political deadlock, alongside Tetteh.
Libyan prosecutors completed training in France on organized crime management. The Audit Bureau is exploring cooperative efforts with Japan to enhance oversight capabilities. Zueitina Oil has restarted operations at the Al-Sabah field as it resumes production after a prolonged hiatus.
Libya is seeking international review support for its budget from the UN. HoR Speaker has called for establishing an Arab-Islamic Fund focused on rebuilding Gaza, indicating the country’s regional engagement. Belqasim Haftar discussed reconstruction projects with the Turkish ambassador to further regional partnerships.
Moreover, sand dunes have obstructed the main road in Sabha, causing concerns about transportation. The voter registration phase for the next group of municipal elections has commenced, reflecting an ongoing commitment to democratic processes. Libya’s participation in the Belgrade Tourism Fair emphasizes its efforts to promote tourism as a key economic sector.
HNEC and UN representatives met to discuss preparations for forthcoming municipal elections. Italy has issued over 15,000 visas to Libyan citizens, enabling travel opportunities. Meanwhile, the UN Advisory Committee concluded its second meeting in Tripoli, indicating continuous dialogue on various issues.
The Libyan Football Federation is in discussions with Senegalese coach Cissé regarding the national team’s management. Meloni faces judicial scrutiny over Najim’s case as political pressures mount. Lastly, the HoR has denied rumors regarding the relocation of Gaza residents to Libya, reaffirming its commitment to transparency.
In summary, significant updates from Libya showcase ongoing political negotiations, human rights challenges, and economic developments. High-level meetings involving international leaders aim at enhancing cooperation and stability. Moreover, local initiatives focus on addressing humanitarian crises and preparing for upcoming elections. Libya’s active participation in diplomatic and economic dialogues positions it for potential growth and international support moving forward.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
