Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, the Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army (LNA), has emphasised the urgent need to address the challenges faced by students at the University of Derna, and to restore the educational process to normalcy.
Haftar highlighted the importance of accelerating the pace of construction, maintenance, and reconstruction projects, to ensure their completion within the specified timelines and according to modern standards. This initiative aims to rejuvenate Derna, and provide its residents with stability and a return to normal life.
This call to action was made during a tour conducted with Osama Hamad, the Prime Minister of the Libyan Parliament-designated government in Derna. The visit focused on inspecting the reconstruction projects undertaken by the Derna Reconstruction Fund, and other affected areas.
On Thursday, the EU Ambassador to Libya, Nicola Orlando lauded the prompt support provided by the EU, in the wake of the tragic events in Derna.
Orlando emphasised the solidarity displayed by the Libyan people in the aftermath of the Derna floods, and the EU’s leading role in extending immediate assistance.
The floods, which also affected cities like Benghazi, Al-Bayda, Al Marj, and Sousse, were particularly severe in Derna. The city saw two dams destroyed, resulting in extensive damage and loss of life. Both locals and foreigners were among the casualties, with a significant number of deaths resulting from being buried in mudslides or swept out to sea.
The Libyan government’s proactive measure to provide compensation reflects its dedication to aiding citizens during calamities, and its recognition of the urgent need for enhanced disaster response mechanisms in the region.
The EU’s involvement in Libya, particularly after Derna, is a testament to its broader strategy in the region. This approach is geared towards stabilizing conflict-ridden areas and aiding post-conflict recovery and development. The EU’s response to the Derna tragedy is aligned with its goals of promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in Libya and the wider Mediterranean region.
Haftar’s emphasis on solving the university students’ problems and fast-tracking the city’s reconstruction efforts underscores a commitment to educational development and the overall recovery of Derna.