Libyan Minister of Culture, Mabrouka Tougi met with the Tunisian Ambassador to Libya, Al-Asaad Al-Ajili to discuss enhancing cultural cooperation between the two nations.
The meeting focused on various cultural issues, and ways to strengthen and develop cultural ties. This engagement signifies ongoing efforts to deepen cultural collaboration between Libya and Tunisia.
Last month, Tougi and her Russian counterpart, Olga Lyubimova met, signifying a step forward in Libya-Russia cultural relations. This meeting, held on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Cultural Forum, aimed to explore and enhance bilateral cooperation.
The two ministers delved into the possibilities of signing an executive program for cultural and artistic cooperation. This program is proposed to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Libyan-Russian relations in 2025. This gesture not only marks a historic milestone, but also opens new chapters in the cultural exchange between the two nations.
In a significant move, Lyubimova expressed her readiness to provide Libyan students with training opportunities and scholarships. Such initiatives are pivotal in fostering mutual understanding, and cultural exchange at a grassroots level.
Libya and Russia share a long history of diplomatic and cultural ties. Following the overthrow of King Idris in 1969, the Soviet Union was the first country to recognize the new Libyan regime, leading to decades of robust political, economic, and cultural ties.
Throughout the 1970’s and 1980’s, the relationship was further solidified with the Soviet Union providing Libya with military support and advisors. However, the dynamics shifted in 2011, when Russia joined arms sanctions against Libya, indicating a complex and evolving political relationship between the two countries.
Post-2011, Russia has shown increased involvement in Libyan affairs, primarily supporting the Tobruk-based Libyan Parliament. This increasing involvement in Libya’s internal affairs reflects a strategic interest, and a commitment to stability in the region.