The Prime Minister of the LibyanParliament-designated government, Osama Hammad discussed migration and border security issues with Niger’s Foreign Minister, Bakary Sangare, and the Special Envoy to the President of Niger.
The discussions primarily focused on shared concerns, and challenges between the two countries, with a particular emphasis on addressing migration-related issues and enhancing security along their common borders.
The meeting took place in Benghazi, eastern Libya, and was attended by Libya’s Minister of African Affairs, Issa Abdel-Majeed.
Earlier this month, the Chairman of the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Committee of the Libyan Parliament, Youssef Al-Agouri held a meeting with Abdel-Majeed.
The Libyan officials discussed the situation in southern Libya, and the national reconciliation file.
Abdel-Majeed provided a comprehensive briefing on his visit to Niger, where he met with the Foreign Minister, and Heads of several key departments, including the Migration and Legal departments.
The discussions focused on enhancing trade exchange, combating illegal migration, and increasing diplomatic representation.
Al-Agouri emphasised the importance of coordination with Niger, a country with which Libya shares deep historical and social ties. He highlighted the significance of standing by the people of Niger during these challenging times.
Acknowledging the efforts of Abdel-Majeed, Al-Agouri commended the ongoing initiatives to strengthen relations with neighbouring countries.
Earlier, Abdel-Majeed held a meeting with the Prime Minister of Niger, Ali Lamine Zeine, and FM Bakary Sangare, along with other officials from the Nigerien government.
During the meeting, which was held in the city of Dirk in Niger, near the Libyan border, they discussed illegal migration and bilateral cooperation.
Sangare pledged to reconsider the decision of his government to open borders for migration with Libya. Additionally, discussions included the possibility of opening a consulate in the city of Sebha.
It’s noteworthy that the leader of the Military Council in Niger, Abdel-Rahman Tian, had annulled legislation criminalising migrant smuggling in November. This was in response to European sanctions against Niamey.
Libya has emerged as a significant source of illegal migration to Italy, rivalling the traditionally high numbers from Tunisia.
This increase is largely attributed to the breakdown of security infrastructure in Libya’s western regions, exacerbated by the dominance of militias.
These developments have led to Libya becoming a hub for human trafficking, and illegal immigration activities.