On Sunday, the Libyan Parliament’s Minister Commissioner for African Affairs, Issa Abdulmajid, and Moroccan Consul in Benghazi, Said Benkirane, held pivotal talks to facilitate visa processes, and resume flight services between the two nations.
During a recent meeting in Benghazi, Benkirane reiterated that the return of direct flights is forthcoming. He also expressed that visa impositions would be lifted, “as soon as the circumstances that necessitated them are resolved.”
He praised the security and stability within Benghazi, and other areas under the jurisdiction of the Libyan government, noting the conducive environment for enhancing bilateral relations.
The discussions underscored the importance of bilateral coordination, to serve the interests of both Libyan and Moroccan peoples, alongside exploring various aspects of mutual concern.
Benkirane reaffirmed Morocco’s unwavering support for the Libyan government, and its people across all domains. He emphasized Morocco’s “readiness to stand with Libya in all matters that ensure its welfare and interests.”
Historically, the relationship between Libya and Morocco has seen a series of diplomatic fluctuations.
In the late 20th century, under the leadership of Libya’s Muammar Gaddafi and Morocco’s King Hassan II, the countries experienced a brief union known as the Arab-African Union in 1984, which was an attempt to transcend regional politics, and form a stronger political and economic bloc.
However, this union was short-lived due to differences in political agendas, and regional dynamics.
In more recent years, following the Arab Spring and the resulting political upheaval in Libya, Morocco has played a significant role as a mediator in Libyan peace talks. The city of Skhirat in Morocco was the site of the signing of the UN-brokered Libyan Political Agreement in 2015, aimed at establishing a transitional government and ending the civil war in Libya.
The economic ties between Libya and Morocco have also been noteworthy. Before the Libyan conflict, Morocco was a significant trade partner, and home to thousands of Libyan expatriates and students.
There is potential for cooperation in various sectors, including trade, investment, and tourism, which both governments have shown interest in developing.
However, the instability in Libya following the 2011 revolution has been a matter of concern for Morocco, with issues such as security, migration, and regional stability being directly affected.
Morocco has consistently advocated for a peaceful resolution to the Libyan conflict, supporting UN-led processes and emphasizing the importance of Libyan sovereignty and territorial integrity.