A Libyan official met with Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa to discuss diplomatic ties, energy cooperation, and migration challenges, highlighting mutual support for Syria’s transitional phase. The officials stressed the need for enhanced collaboration on security issues and pointed out the significance of illegal immigration from Syria through Libya. This meeting is part of broader regional diplomatic efforts amid the ongoing political transformations in both nations.
A senior official from Libya’s internationally recognized administration engaged in discussions with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, in Damascus on Saturday. The dialogue encompassed various topics, notably diplomatic relations, energy cooperation, and migration issues. Walid Ellafi, Libya’s Minister of State for Communication and Political Affairs, emphasized their support for Syria’s transitional phase and the necessity for enhanced collaboration in security and military matters. Additionally, the officials addressed the challenges posed by illegal immigration, particularly focusing on the movement of Syrians fleeing the civil conflict since 2011 who often transit through Libya in pursuit of opportunities in Europe.
Ellafi articulated the importance of upgrading diplomatic ties between the two nations, stating that a charge d’affaires attended the meeting and efforts were underway to appoint a permanent ambassador. Meanwhile, Libya’s political landscape remains divided between the UN-backed government in Tripoli and a rival administration in the east, led by military commander Khalifa Haftar, who also influences the southern territories. Notably, a diplomatic mission from Haftar’s camp was established in Damascus in March 2020, marking a revival of Libyan representation in Syria after a lengthy absence following the 2011 ousting of Muammar Gaddafi.
In parallel to the Libyan-Syrian discussions, Sharaa also welcomed Bahrain’s strategic security bureau chief, Sheikh Ahmed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khalifa, in a meeting highlighted by the Bahraini government. The focus was on reinforcing regional stability and supporting a comprehensive transitional process in Syria, as Bahrain assumes the presidency of the Arab Summit. On December 14, predominately Arab nations, including Bahrain, urged a peaceful transition in Syria with assistance from the United Nations and the Arab League.
The meeting between Libya’s official and Syria’s new leadership occurs against a backdrop of significant political transitions in both countries. Following a civil uprising, Libya has experienced a fragmentation of power, with a recognized government in Tripoli and a rival authority in eastern Libya. Conversely, Syria has sought to stabilize its governance after a prolonged civil war and the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad. The recent diplomatic engagements signify a potential thaw in relations between these two nations, reflecting broader regional dynamics and a push for enhanced cooperation amidst neighboring challenges.
The meeting between the Libyan official and Syria’s new leader underscores a pivotal moment in the diplomatic landscape of the region, emphasizing mutual support for transitional governance and cooperative strategies to tackle pressing issues such as migration and security. The commitment to enhancing diplomatic relations points to a growing understanding between the two nations, while also interfacing with broader regional stabilization efforts. The evolving interactions between Arab states continue to suggest a collective movement towards reconciliation and collaboration, particularly in addressing the aftermath of conflict in Syria and Libya.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
