On Thursday, Adel Sultan, Libya’s Minister of Marine Wealth in the Government of National Unity, met with Sophie Kimekhadze, the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Libya, to discuss enhancing the cooperation program between the ministry and UNDP in the field of maritime resources.
The ministry’s media office stated that the meeting focused on implementing a joint cooperation agreement that contributes to the development of the maritime sector and supports sustainable projects. It also included coordinating technical meetings between specialists from both sides to discuss ways to cooperate in training, project implementation, and sustainable development, as well as empowering women and youth in various activities related to the fishing sector and enhancing their participation in its development.
Minister Sultan emphasized the importance of collaboration with international partners to enhance the sustainability of marine wealth and develop working mechanisms in this vital sector, aligning with national goals and international blue economy strategies.
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.
