The Libyan Government’s African Studies Research Center held a dialogue session in Benghazi titled “Dimensions and Prospects of Libya–Africa Relations.” The event brought together academics, researchers, and experts specializing in African affairs to discuss strategies for strengthening Libya’s ties across the continent.
Director General of the Center, Salem Al-Urfi, said the institution is working to reinforce Libya’s relations with African nations through specialized research studies that address shared issues and regional cooperation. He noted that Libya’s geographical position as Africa’s gateway to Europe gives it a unique strategic importance in regional dynamics.
Al-Urfi called on government institutions to support the Center’s initiatives, expressing appreciation to Prime Minister Osama Hammad, Minister of Culture Salha Al-Darouqi, and Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army, for their continuous support of academic and research institutions.
Research-Based Approaches to Migration and Regional Cooperation
He explained that the Center adopts research-driven approaches aimed at raising public awareness about migration issues and promoting humane treatment of migrants. The Center is also cooperating with Libyan universities and the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Illegal Migration to develop practical solutions and policy recommendations on these challenges.
Dr. Ali Ramadan, a faculty member at the University of Benghazi and moderator of the session, said discussions revolved around four main themes: the historical evolution of Libya–Africa relations, the key challenges facing African nations, the nature of African political systems, and a set of recommendations directed to policymakers to strengthen cooperation with the continent.
The session was attended by several public figures, including Members of Parliament Mohamed Douma and Abdel-Nasser Al-Naas, Munzir Al-Fuqahi, Director of the Libyan Center for Local Cultures, as well as a number of researchers and African affairs specialists.
The event concluded with a call to continue hosting similar academic forums, viewed as vital bridges for promoting cultural, scientific, and economic cooperation between Libya and African countries.
