Libya’s Deputy Presidential Council Head, Abdullah al-Lafi, met with the newly appointed German Ambassador to Libya, Ralph Tarraf, in Tripoli. During the meeting, Ambassador Tarraf expressed Germany’s readiness to support the political process in Libya, aiming to fulfil the aspirations of the Libyan people by facilitating elections and achieving lasting peace and stability.
Al-Lafi praised Germany’s commitment to a political and peaceful resolution to the Libyan crisis, particularly through the Berlin process. He emphasised the importance of combined local and international efforts to build peace in Libya and restore security and stability.
The German Ambassador also pledged to strengthen Libyan-German cooperation as he begins his new role.
Last month, Tarraf expressed his commitment to enhancing the relationship between Germany and Libya. In his inaugural post on the platform X, Tarraf extended his greetings to the Libyan people and conveyed his enthusiasm about his new role.
He highlighted his dedication to bolstering the collaboration between the two countries, stating, “It is an honour to assume the position of Germany’s Ambassador to Libya and to contribute to strengthening German-Libyan cooperation.” His appointment marks a new chapter in the diplomatic relationship between Germany and Libya.
Tarraf succeeds Michael Ohnmacht, who had served as the German Ambassador in Tripoli since August 2021. Ohnmacht took over from Christian Buck, who is now the Special Envoy to Libya. Buck’s transition to this role followed his tenure as the German Ambassador, which saw significant developments in bilateral relations.
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.