Relations between Turkey and the administration of Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar have seen significant improvement in recent months, according to a report published by the Turkish daily Zaman. The report highlights a high-level meeting that took place on Sunday between the Commander of the Libyan National Army (LNA) Ground Forces, Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa Haftar, and Turkish Consul Serkan Kırmanlıoğlu.
The meeting, held near the city of Benghazi, was also attended by General Khairy Al-Tamimi, a prominent figure within the LNA leadership. Discussions reportedly focused on the reopening of the Turkish Consulate in Benghazi, with both sides exploring ways to restore consular services for residents of eastern Libya.
According to Zaman, this step reflects a new chapter in the evolving relationship between Ankara and Libya’s eastern-based authorities. After years of political and military rivalry, diplomatic contacts between the two sides have intensified, signaling a policy shift by Turkey toward engaging all Libyan factions.
The report noted that Saddam Haftar’s visit to Ankara in April marked a turning point. During his trip, he met with Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler and senior commanders in the Turkish Armed Forces, underscoring a willingness to explore future military and political cooperation.
Turkey had closed its Benghazi consulate years ago due to ongoing conflict in the region. Historically, Ankara was considered a strong supporter of the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity (GNU). However, recent diplomatic initiatives suggest a more balanced Turkish approach aimed at building ties with all sides in Libya.
Reopening the consulate in Benghazi is expected to pave the way for broader collaboration and symbolizes a practical and strategic step forward in the Turkey-Haftar relationship.
