The Minister of Local Governance in Libya’s Government of National Unity (GNU), Badr Al-Din Al-Toumi recently met with Martin Longden, the British Ambassador to Libya. During the meeting, concerns about delays in the reconstruction of flood-affected regions in Eastern Libya were a key topic of discussion.
Ambassador Longden indicated that the meeting “focused on the concerns regarding the delay in reconstructing areas, particularly those ravaged by floods.” The Ministry’s media office stated that the session also “covered the reconstruction of Derna and other damaged regions, as well as joint cooperation projects in local administration.”
Al-Toumi outlined the government’s efforts in response and recovery operations, and the preparation for a reconstruction plan for the city of Derna and other flood-affected areas. He highlighted the main challenges that could impact the reconstruction, and the effective strategies to overcome these obstacles for efficient and effective implementation of the reconstruction plan.
In turn, Longden reaffirmed the UK’s support for the United Nations Envoy to Libya, Abdoulaye Bathily’s plan for a political solution. He also emphasized the UK’s commitment to assisting the GNU in enhancing partnership and cooperation in municipal elections, and the reconstruction of Derna.
On Friday, the US Special Envoy to Libya, Richard Norland announced the United States’ willingness to aid the residents of Derna, by collaborating with the World Bank and the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).
In a statement, Norland expressed his engagement in the discussions about rebuilding Derna, and other flood-damaged regions. These talks involved Al-Siddiq Al-Kabir, Governor of the Central Bank of Libya (CBL), and Georgette Gagnon from UNSMIL.
Emphasizing effective resource allocation, Norland, alongside Jeremy Brent, the Chargé d’Affaires, conveyed their encouragement to ensure that reconstruction funds are distributed in a transparent, and coordinated manner. This approach aims to address the needs of Derna’s residents, and other affected communities.