The Municipality of Benghazi announced today, Saturday, the commencement of the new Benghazi Airport project located in the Tika area west of the city.
Through its Facebook page, the Benghazi Municipality confirmed that the new airport project will feature 12 gates with the potential for expansion, additional facilities, a free zone, and infrastructure for air cargo and transit operations.
In a separate but related development, General Khalifa Haftar, the Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army, reiterated the necessity of completing the maintenance of the Benghazi International Stadium according to the predefined schedule.
This was stated during a visit by the army commander, accompanied by the General Director of the Libyan Development and Reconstruction Fund, to the Benghazi Sports City to review the progress of the stadium’s maintenance work.
The new airport initiative is seen as a significant step towards enhancing the infrastructure and boosting economic and logistical capabilities in Benghazi, aligning with broader national efforts to advance Libya’s development and global connectivity.
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.
