In a recent meeting, Ali Al-Abid Al-Rida, Libya’s Minister of Labour and Rehabilitation of the Government of National Unity, held discussions with Levinson Alcantara, the Filipino Assistant Secretary for Pre-Employment Services of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). The focus of their conversation was on enhancing the recruitment of skilled Filipino workers to Libya.
Minister Al-Abid expressed appreciation for the contribution of Filipino workers to the Libyan labour market and highlighted the ministry’s initiatives to streamline labour transfer procedures through the “Wafed” digital platform. He reiterated the ministry’s dedication to upholding the Labour Relations Law, ensuring the protection of workers’ rights, and addressing any challenges encountered by the workforce in Libya.
Assistant Secretary Alcantara conveyed the Filipino community’s positive experiences working in Libya, praising the nation’s efforts in improving employment conditions and creating a conducive work environment. He also emphasized the Philippines’ commitment to training and qualifying workers for overseas employment, including language proficiency and familiarity with Libyan laws.
The meeting was attended by representatives from the DMW, the Charge d’Affaires of the Philippine Embassy in Libya, and Dr. Ali Al-Maqouri, the Libyan Undersecretary for Employment Affairs.
Additionally, last month, Libya’s acting Foreign Minister, Taher Al-Baour, and his Filipino counterpart, Enrique Manalo, engaged in discussions to deepen economic cooperation between the two countries. This dialogue occurred alongside the 19th Ministerial Meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement and underscores the longstanding relationship between Libya and the Philippines, which extends over fifty years.
Both nations expressed interest in expanding economic collaboration, particularly through private sector involvement. This approach supports Libya’s strategy to diversify its economy and establish significant international trade and investment partnerships, while also opening new economic opportunities for the Philippines.
As Libya aims to advance its reconstruction and development efforts, the expertise from the Philippines in healthcare, education, and infrastructure is deemed invaluable, highlighting the potential for a mutually beneficial partnership between the two countries.
