Russian Ambassador to Libya, Aydar Aganin, met with the Director-General of the Libyan Reconstruction and Development Fund, Belgasem Haftar in Benghazi on Thursday.
The meeting discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation in several key sectors, according to a statement by the Russian Embassy to Libya.
The meeting primarily focused on collaboration in the extraction of oil and gas, which is a crucial industry for both nations. Libya, with its vast reserves, is a significant player in the global oil market, and Russia’s expertise in energy extraction and production could prove beneficial in revitalizing Libya’s oil and gas sector. Both parties expressed a strong interest in leveraging Russian technology and investment to boost production and efficiency in this field.
In addition to energy, the discussions also covered the reconstruction of Libya’s railways. The railway system in Libya has suffered extensive damage due to years of conflict and neglect. Russian companies have a wealth of experience in railway construction and modernization, and their involvement could significantly aid in rebuilding this critical infrastructure. The restoration of the railway network is expected to enhance domestic transportation, facilitate trade, and contribute to overall economic recovery.
Another major topic on the agenda was the rebuilding of power generation stations. Libya’s power infrastructure has been severely compromised, leading to frequent blackouts and an unreliable electricity supply. The collaboration aims to address these challenges by rehabilitating existing power plants and constructing new ones. Russian expertise in power generation can provide the technical support needed to stabilize and expand Libya’s electricity grid, ensuring a steady power supply for both residential and industrial use.
The meeting underscored the importance of international partnerships in Libya’s ongoing reconstruction efforts. By working together, both countries hope to create a stable and prosperous environment that can attract further international investment and support.
The Russian embassy’s statement highlighted the mutual benefits of such cooperation, emphasizing that these projects could significantly contribute to Libya’s post-conflict recovery and development. Improved infrastructure and energy production are seen as vital components for the country’s long-term stability and growth.
Belgasem Haftar, representing the Libyan side, expressed optimism about the potential outcomes of these discussions. He noted that Russian involvement could accelerate the pace of reconstruction and development, providing much-needed support to rebuild Libya’s economy and infrastructure.
