The new Greek Consulate in Benghazi, Agapios Kalognomos emphasised the significance of ongoing cooperation and coordination with the Benghazi municipality.
In a meeting with the Head of Benghazi’s Steering Council, Al-Saqr Bu Jwari, Kalogynomos highlighted that the collaboration focuses on aspects related to reconstruction, infrastructure, and various economic and service sectors.
Kalognomos detailed the municipality’s contract with the Greek engineering consultancy firm LEAD, for a project aimed at updating and expanding Benghazi’s master plan. The Greek Consul expressed his eagerness to continue working in various fields of shared interest.
Bu Jwari praised Greece’s support for improving the infrastructure of the Benghazi port, enhancing its commercial capacity, and facilitating the smooth delivery of humanitarian aid to the broader North African region.
This partnership reflects the deepening bilateral relations between Greece and Libya, focusing on strategic projects that promise to bolster the economic and infrastructural landscape of Benghazi. As well as contribute to the region’s stability and development.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.