On the sidelines of the second edition of the International Conference on Labour Markets held in Riyadh under the theme “Future of Work,” Libyan Minister of Labour and Rehabilitation, Engineer Ali Al-Abid Al-Rida, met with his Palestinian counterpart, Dr. Inas Al-Attari.
The meeting explored ways to enhance cooperation between Libya and Palestine in the fields of employment and labour. The discussions included the activation of the Palestinian employment strategy through the Arab Labour Organisation, aiming to improve the economic conditions of Palestinian workers.
The Libyan Minister of Labour reaffirmed Libya’s steadfast position in supporting the Palestinian cause, noting that Libya remains committed to the Palestinian issue across all fronts, particularly in areas of labour and development.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.