Qatar Expands Diplomatic Presence in Libya, Meeting Key Factions

Qatar is significantly expanding its diplomatic and political footprint in Libya, signaling a potential deepening of cooperation with various political factions across the divided nation. Qatari Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi recently concluded a two-day tour that included meetings in both the capital, Tripoli, and the eastern city of Benghazi.

During his visit, Al-Khulaifi engaged in a series of discussions centered on political, economic, and military cooperation. He also met with UN envoy to Libya, Hanna Tetteh. A key aspect of the tour was the meeting in Benghazi with Lieutenant General Saddam Haftar, the acting commander-in-chief of the Libyan National Army. Their talks addressed the latest political developments in Libya and internationally, alongside strategies for enhancing bilateral relations and cooperation in various sectors to serve mutual interests.

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The two discussed the latest political developments in Libya and abroad, as well as ways to develop bilateral relations and strengthen cooperation across various fields in a manner that serves the two countries’ mutual interests.

This engagement with Benghazi is particularly noteworthy, as it represents the first visit by a senior Qatari official to the eastern city since Libya's political division began 14 years ago. Qatar maintains close ties with authorities in western Libya, but this outreach signifies an effort to bridge the divide. Qatari Ambassador Khalid Al-Dosari has also been active in diplomatic efforts aimed at strengthening cooperation, advancing mutual interests, and supporting stability within Libya.

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The general command said on Thursday evening that Al-Khulaifi expressed his pleasure at visiting Benghazi and praised the stability and urban development the city was experiencing.

Saddam Haftar welcomed the Qatari delegation, emphasizing the strong fraternal relations between the two countries and commending Qatar's role in supporting Libya's stability and unity. The general command reported that Al-Khulaifi expressed pleasure at visiting Benghazi and noted the city's stability and urban development. He extended a formal invitation to Saddam Haftar to visit Qatar for continued consultations.

Prior to meeting Saddam Haftar, Al-Khulaifi met with Belqasim Haftar, director-general of the Libya Development and Reconstruction Fund. Discussions with Belqasim Haftar, accompanied by Ambassador Al-Dosari, focused on the importance of cooperation in development and reconstruction, economic partnerships, and the potential participation of Qatari institutions in projects managed by the fund. The fund's media office stated that both sides discussed expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest and maintaining communication to translate bilateral relations into practical partnerships.

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The two sides discussed expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest and maintaining communication and coordination in the coming period to translate bilateral relations into practical cooperation and partnerships in development and reconstruction.