On Tuesday, China’s Acting Ambassador to Libya, Liu Jian, reaffirmed his country’s support for Libya while firmly rejecting any external interference in the nation’s affairs.
Speaking to the Libyan News Agency, Liu emphasized that relations between Libya and China are currently on a highly positive trajectory, citing recent high-level meetings between officials from both countries.
Liu pointed to the pivotal visit of Mohamed Al Mnifi, head of Libya’s Presidential Council, to Beijing in September 2024, where he met with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the China-Africa Cooperation Summit. The discussions focused on enhancing the strategic partnership between Libya and China.
“These visits by Libyan officials are of great significance for deepening cooperation in all areas between our two countries,” Liu stated. He also expressed China’s eagerness to build a comprehensive partnership with Libya, pledging full support in vital sectors like infrastructure, energy, and technology.
Liu highlighted that talks are underway with Libyan officials about the necessary security and logistical arrangements for reopening the Chinese embassy in Tripoli. Recent discussions with Libya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation have focused on ensuring the embassy’s safe and efficient return to the capital.
The ambassador reiterated China’s commitment to supporting a peaceful political resolution to Libya’s ongoing conflict. “China firmly opposes all forms of external intervention in Libya’s internal matters,” he said, stressing that Libya’s sovereignty must be respected and that dialogue and negotiation are the only paths to peace.
Liu underscored China’s long-standing friendship with Libya, affirming that China will continue to support Libya’s efforts toward development, peace, and stability. He emphasized the importance of mutual respect and cooperation as the foundation for the future relationship between the two nations.
China has steadily increased its engagement with Libya in recent years, seeing the country as a key part of its broader African strategy. Libya’s vast energy resources and strategic location are particularly important for China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which seeks to enhance global trade and infrastructure links. As Libya embarks on a major post-conflict reconstruction effort, Chinese companies are well-positioned to play a leading role in rebuilding infrastructure and advancing key sectors like energy.