The official Spokeswoman for the Libyan Presidential Council, Najwa Wahiba announced that Mohamed Al-Mnifi has received an invitation from Russian President, Vladimir Putin to participate in the upcoming Russia-Africa summit at the end of this month.
According to Sputnik News Agency, the summit will “provide an opportunity to hold important meetings, and discuss political and economic issues at both the bilateral and regional levels.”
Wahiba welcomed the expected return of the Russian Embassy to Tripoli, and encouraged all other foreign missions to resume their operations. She emphasised that “Libya has a long-standing and traditional relationship with Russia, and that Libya has not abandoned this relationship and is keen to strengthen it.”
She noted that Al-Mnifi’s acceptance of the credentials of the Russian Ambassador, Aydar Aganin “reflects the joint commitment to enhancing bilateral relations, and achieving the common interests of the two friendly countries and peoples.”
She stated that “Libya today is open to everyone and welcomes building relationships with all countries based on mutual respect, and looks forward to developing bilateral relations with Russia in various fields.”
Last month, the Prime Minister of Libya’s Government of National Unity (GNU), Abdel-Hamid Dbaiba held talks with Aganin.
The primary focus of their discussions was the resumption of Moscow’s diplomatic activities in Libya.
An official statement detailed that both parties agreed to relocate the Russian Embassy back to Tripoli, by August.
During the meeting, Dbaiba highlighted the importance of a “united international stance concerning Libya.” He emphasized the need for “recognition and respect for the country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, while urging an end to all forms of foreign interventions.”
Aganin relayed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s affirmation of the need to strengthen bilateral ties with Libya. Putin also expressed his support for the GNU’s endeavours toward ensuring stability and conducting successful elections.
