The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Monday the reopening of the its Embassy in Tripoli, Libya, following its closure in 2014.
In a statement, the Iraqi Foreign Ministry indicated that “in line with the activation of the government’s program, and under the direction of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, the Embassy was reopened to provide services to the Iraqi community residing in Libya.” Dr. Ahmed Al-Sahaf was appointed as the Head of the Iraqi Mission.
During the opening ceremony, Al-Sahaf emphasised the mission’s commitment to “developing bilateral relations and coordinating high-level visits between Baghdad and Tripoli in the coming period.”
Al-Sahaf also revealed Iraq’s support for international efforts to restore security and stability in Libya, advocating for a political solution that meets the aspirations of the Libyan people.
He pointed out that the reopening of the Iraqi Embassy in Libya, “plays a crucial role in revitalising political and diplomatic activities, serving the interests of both brotherly countries. Additionally, the embassy will provide consular services and support to the Iraqi community in Libya.”
Notably, Abdel-Hadi Al-Hwaij, the Foreign Minister of the Libyan Parliament-designated government, has been at the forefront of international engagements aimed at stabilising and navigating Libya through its complex political landscape.
Al-Hwaij’s role includes addressing international issues relevant to Libya, and steering the nation’s foreign policy in a direction that aligns with the objectives of the interim government. This government, supported by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar and the Libyan National Army (LNA), has been instrumental in counter-terrorism efforts, and asserting control over significant portions of the country.
These diplomatic activities are part of broader efforts by Libyan authorities to establish stability, and address challenges such as foreign interference, which has been a factor in the ongoing conflict. Countries like Qatar, Turkey, and Italy have been accused of supporting armed groups in Tripoli, further complicating Libya’s path to stability.
The inauguration of new consular offices, such as the one in Tobruk, is part of this effort, aiming to enhance Libya’s administrative and diplomatic capabilities, which are crucial for the country’s stabilisation efforts.
Al-Hwaij’s discussions with his Iraqi counterpart, Fuad Hussein, therefore, mark a significant step in Libya’s diplomatic engagements. This focused on bilateral cooperation, particularly in combatting terrorism, and addressing security concerns, in line with Libya’s broader strategic goals of securing stability and countering the influence of militant groups like IS. These cooperative efforts with Iraq and other regional partners are pivotal in Libya’s journey towards achieving a more stable and secure environment, essential for its political and economic development.