On Tuesday, Mohamed Aoun, the Libyan Minister of Oil and Gas in the Government of National Unity (GNU), hosted the Maltese Ambassador to Libya, Charles Saliba, and his delegation at the Ministry’s headquarters.
The meeting, attended by officials from the Ministry of Oil and Gas, focused on Libyan affairs and Malta’s aspirations to enhance cooperation with Libya.
According to the Ministry’s media office, discussions included the latest developments in Libya. Saliba expressed his country’s willingness for Maltese companies to re-engage in oil and construction projects in Libya.
The Maltese Ambassador conveyed the interest of several new companies in operating in Libya, contingent upon improved security conditions and the country’s ongoing stability.
Saliba urged support for companies with a long-standing presence in Libya’s oil services sector, addressing challenges they face. He emphasised the eagerness of these companies to return to Libya and contribute to its development.
In response, Aoun asked the Maltese Ambassador to submit a memorandum outlining specific concerns, ensuring they receive due attention and consideration.
The meeting also delved into discussions about the maritime border between the two countries. The Libyan Ministry plans to form a national team to explore the possibilities of joint oil exploration in the border region.
Saliba expressed satisfaction with the productive and candid meeting, and pledged to sustain and support these relations, fostering continued cooperation.
Notably, Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela participated in Libya Energy & Economic Summit held on the 13th and 14th of January 2024, in Tripoli. He delivered a speech at the event focusing on Libya’s energy prospects.
Abela discussed trade and commercial ties between the two countries and explored the feasibility of a proposed renewable energy interconnector project.
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 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.