Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa Haftar, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army (LNA), held talks with French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday during an official visit to Paris, as the two sides discussed bilateral relations, military cooperation, and the latest developments in Libya and the wider region.
The meeting took place at the Élysée Palace and formed part of a broader series of high-level engagements between Libyan and French officials.
According to a statement issued by the LNA General Command, Saddam Haftar praised the longstanding relationship between Libya and France. He highlighted the steady growth of cooperation between the two countries, particularly in security and defense.
During the talks, Macron emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue and coordination with Libya, stressing France’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at strengthening stability and security. The French president also underscored the need to continue developing bilateral cooperation in a way that serves the interests of both countries and contributes to regional peace and stability.
The French Embassy in Libya described the discussions as “productive,” noting that Saddam Haftar’s visit included many meetings with senior French political and military officials. These included talks with Paul Soler, Special Envoy of the French President, General Vincent Giraud, Chief of the President’s Military Staff, and General Michel Delpit, Commander of French Special Operations.
According to the embassy, the discussions focused on the future of military cooperation between Libya and France, as well as ways to enhance coordination on security matters. France also reiterated its support for efforts to unify Libya’s armed forces under a national framework and renewed its call for the departure of foreign forces and mercenaries from Libyan territory.
Meanwhile, in Benghazi, Speaker of the House of Representatives Ageela Saleh met French Ambassador Thierry Vallat to discuss bilateral relations and recent developments in Libya. The meeting coincided with Saddam Haftar’s visit to France, reflecting ongoing diplomatic engagement between Paris and key Libyan institutions.
Saddam Haftar’s visit highlights the growing level of communication between Libya and France on defense, security, and regional issues, while underscoring Paris’ continued interest in developments affecting Libya’s stability and future.
