Libya and Bosnia and Herzegovina are exploring plans to establish direct flights between the two countries, according to a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Libya’s outgoing Government of National Unity (GNU).
Talks were held on Monday between Libyan officials and Bosnia’s Ambassador to Libya, Senad Masović, focusing on activating a direct air route to facilitate official delegations and strengthen bilateral cooperation.
The Ministry highlighted that this initiative aims to support trade, economic, and tourism exchange, as well as ease official visits between Libyan and Bosnian officials.
The meeting was attended by Abu Bakr Ibrahim Al-Touil, Director of the European Affairs Department, Nadia Mohamed Massoud, Head of the Southern Section, along with other officials tasked with managing Libya-Bosnia relations.
Both sides reaffirmed the deep historical ties between Libya and Bosnia, emphasizing the importance of resolving pending issues to unlock new opportunities for enhanced cooperation.
An official announcement regarding the launch of direct flights is expected following further consultations.
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.
