Libyan Official Discusses Energy and Migration with Syria’s New Leadership

A senior Libyan official met with Syria’s new leader to discuss diplomatic ties, energy cooperation, and migration issues, reinforcing Libya’s support for Syria’s transitional phase. The meeting marks a potential thaw in diplomatic relations after years of disconnect following the Syrian conflict and Libya’s political turmoil.

In a significant meeting held on Saturday, a senior representative from Libya’s UN-recognized government, Minister of State for Communication and Political Affairs Walid Ellafi, met with Syria’s newly appointed leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa. Their discussions centered on critical matters such as diplomatic relations, energy cooperation, and the ongoing challenges posed by migration. Minister Ellafi reiterated the Libyan government’s support for Syria during this crucial transitional period while highlighting the necessity for enhanced coordination on security and military fronts. The two officials also explored avenues for collaboration regarding illegal immigration, as many Syrians fleeing their homeland since 2011 have sought refuge in Libya en route to Europe. Furthermore, Ellafi underscored the importance of increasing diplomatic representations between Libya and Syria, noting the presence of the charge d’affaires at the meeting and expressing hopes for appointing a permanent ambassador soon.

The geopolitical landscape in Libya is complex, with power divided between a UN-recognized government in Tripoli and a rival administration in the eastern region, led by military leader Khalifa Haftar. Historically, Libya has struggled with political representation in Syria, as the country had been without a diplomatic mission in Damascus since 2012, following the fall of Muammar Qaddafi. The new leadership in Syria, following recent shifts in power, has received diplomatic envoys from various nations, indicating a broader regional interest in re-establishing ties. Moreover, other regional powers, like Bahrain, have also sought to strengthen their relations with Syria, reflecting a collective interest in fostering political stability in the region.

The meeting between the Libyan official and the newly established Syrian leadership comes at a pivotal moment for both nations. Libya is currently navigating a complex political landscape characterized by divisions between rival administrations. Meanwhile, Syria is experiencing its own transition after a prolonged period of conflict, with changing dynamics among its leadership. The discussions on energy and migration are particularly salient given the historical context of migration patterns in the region, where many Syrians have sought opportunities in Libya, often risking perilous journeys across the Mediterranean toward Europe. The context of these relations stems from their turbulent political histories, with efforts now underway to re-establish diplomatic connections.

In conclusion, the engagement between Libya’s government and Syria’s new leadership marks a vital step towards rekindling diplomatic ties amidst shifting political landscapes. The emphasis on cooperation in energy, security, and migration reflects shared challenges that require collaboration. Both nations are poised to navigate their transitional phases through mutual support and strengthened diplomatic representation, underscoring the region’s evolving geopolitical dynamics.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com