The Speaker of the Libyan House of Representatives, Ageela Saleh, accompanied by a delegation of lawmakers, arrived in Rome on Thursday following an official invitation from the Italian Parliament.
Upon arrival, Saleh met with Lorenzo Fontana, the Speaker of the Italian Parliament, who welcomed the Libyan delegation alongside Libya’s Ambassador to Italy, Mohannad Younis. Fontana expressed his eagerness to hear updates on Libya’s situation directly from Saleh.
The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral relations rooted in shared history, geography, and cultural and trade ties. Saleh highlighted the importance of the 2008 Treaty of Friendship, signed in Benghazi, as a cornerstone for renewed cooperation. He emphasized the Italian Parliament’s role in advancing the treaty’s political, economic, and legislative aspects.
Saleh also raised humanitarian concerns during the discussions, urging Fontana to facilitate the repatriation or pardon of Libyan prisoners in Italy. He stressed the challenges faced by prisoners’ families, who are unable to visit their loved ones, and called for collaboration with the Libyan Attorney General on this issue. Fontana assured Saleh of the Italian Parliament’s commitment to addressing the matter.
Illegal migration was another key topic. Saleh pointed out that migration is driven by poverty, conflict, and instability, adding that many migrants perish at sea or in the desert. He proposed development initiatives in migrants’ home countries as a long-term solution and underscored Libya’s role as a transit country rather than a source of migration. Saleh reaffirmed his instructions to Libyan authorities to cooperate with Italian counterparts in combating illegal migration.
Additionally, Saleh highlighted the importance of involving the Libyan Development and Reconstruction Fund in Italy’s efforts to assist Libya’s rebuilding process. An agreement was reached for the Fund’s General Director, Eng. Belqasim Haftar, to visit Rome to discuss reconstruction initiatives.
Fontana commended the Libyan House of Representatives for its role in fostering stability, resolving divisions, and enacting legislation to organize the Libyan state. He stressed the need for a unified government in Libya and reiterated Italy’s commitment to combating illegal migration and terrorism through a genuine partnership.
The meeting concluded with both sides expressing optimism for deeper cooperation and mutual progress.
