The EU Ambassador to Libya, Nicola Orlando, has reaffirmed EU’s commitment to deepening energy cooperation with Libya, with an emphasis on renewable energy, sustainability, and economic diversification.
Orlando said the meeting with Libya’s Minister of Oil and Gas, Khalifa Abdulsadek, in Tripoli built on the momentum of last week’s “Just and Sustainable Energy Transition” conference. The talks centred on aligning ongoing EU programmes to support renewable energy projects, climate action, and long-term growth in Libya.
Both sides agreed that the partnership would not only serve Libya’s economic recovery but also enhance Europe’s energy security. The EU stressed the importance of youth and women’s inclusion as central pillars in advancing shared energy and sustainability goals.
Orlando highlighted the EU’s readiness to assist Libya in diversifying its economy beyond oil dependency. He said renewable energy development would provide a pathway for job creation and stability, while strengthening Libya’s role as a regional energy partner.
The discussions also addressed the damaging impact of oil smuggling on Libya’s economy. Both parties acknowledged that illicit trade in fuel undermines public revenues, destabilises local markets, and hinders reform. Tackling this challenge, Orlando said, will require strong Libyan reforms combined with coordinated international support.
The EU and Libya pledged to continue technical cooperation in areas of governance, transparency, and energy management. The shared vision aims to position Libya as a sustainable energy hub in North Africa, while reinforcing Europe’s diversification of energy sources.
