Libyan and European officials have reached an understanding to intensify joint efforts aimed at returning irregular migrants from Libya to their countries of origin, according to the European Union Ambassador to Libya, Nicola Orlando.
Orlando confirmed that a series of meetings were held in Brussels this week between senior EU representatives and Libyan officials from both Tripoli and Benghazi to address migration management, border control, and humanitarian coordination.
The discussions focused on establishing a unified national approach to managing Libya’s land borders and enhancing international standards in search and rescue operations along the Mediterranean. Both sides emphasized the need to balance security concerns with humanitarian obligations, ensuring that migrant protection remains part of Libya’s migration strategy.
Delegates also reviewed progress and challenges in migration governance, the return and reintegration of migrants, and efforts to combat human trafficking and smuggling networks. Participants highlighted the importance of cooperation with United Nations agencies to ensure that returns and repatriations are conducted safely and in accordance with international law.
As part of the talks, the Libyan delegation visited the headquarters of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) in Warsaw, Poland, where they discussed technical collaboration and standards for border surveillance and rescue coordination.
Ambassador Orlando described the talks as a constructive step toward building a comprehensive migration partnership between the EU and Libya, stressing that cooperation on border management, anti-smuggling measures, and voluntary returns is essential for both sides.
