The European Union Border Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM-Libya) has announced the signing of a contract to carry out maintenance and rehabilitation of border facilities under the Ministry of Interior at the Ras Ajdir border crossing, located on the Libyan-Tunisian border, and in the Al-Assa area.
According to a statement from EUBAM-Libya, the contract was signed by Abdul-Aati Al-Jadak, advisor to the Ministry of Interior in the interim Government of National Unity (GNU), and Jan Vysetel, head of the European mission.
The mission described the project as part of EUBAM-Libya’s broader mandate to support Libyan authorities in enhancing border management and national security. It aims to improve the operational capabilities of the Libyan Border Guard at this strategic crossing.
EUBAM-Libya reiterated its commitment to working closely with Libyan partners to address the challenges of irregular migration and cross-border crime.
Earlier this month, officials from the Ministry of Interior in the interim GNU inaugurated the commercial lane at the Ras Ajdir border crossing, in coordination with Tunisian counterparts.
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.
