Libya’s Railways Project Implementation and Management Authority has signed a memorandum of understanding with China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) to restart work on the country’s national railway network.
The agreement was signed in Beijing on 12 July, according to a statement published by Libya’s railway authority and reports from Railway Gazette. It aims to revive railway projects that have been suspended since the 2011 revolution.
Under the MoU, construction will resume on three key lines. The first will connect Tripoli to the Tunisian border town of Ras Ajdir, stretching 170 kilometres along the coast. The second will run from Tripoli to Sirte, covering 472 kilometres. A third inland route will link Misrata to the southern city of Sebha, covering 810 kilometres.
CCECC had originally signed contracts to build these routes in 2008, with completion expected by 2013. However, political instability and conflict forced all work to stop in the aftermath of the 2011 uprising.
In addition, a 554-kilometre coastal line between Sirte and Benghazi had been awarded to Russian Railways, but that project was also halted.
The railway authority said the new agreement will lead to technical assessments, updates to existing designs, and discussions on phased implementation. Financial details were not disclosed, but the work is expected to be supported by Libyan government funds and Chinese financing.
Officials in Tripoli said the revival of the railway network will play a vital role in improving transport infrastructure, reducing road traffic, and supporting economic recovery.
The agreement comes amid broader efforts by Libya to attract foreign investment and rebuild critical infrastructure across the country.
