Qatar Expands Diplomatic Reach in Libya, Meets with Haftar

Qatar is making a concerted effort to bolster its diplomatic and political influence in Libya, aiming to forge stronger cooperation and partnerships across the divided nation. This intensified engagement follows years of strained relations, particularly with the eastern-based factions.

“

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.

During a two-day tour, Qatari Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi visited both the capital, Tripoli, and the eastern city of Benghazi. In these meetings, Al-Khulaifi engaged in discussions focused on political, economic, and military cooperation with various Libyan political figures. He also held talks with the UN envoy to Libya, Hanna Tetteh.

A significant aspect of the tour was Al-Khulaifi's meeting in Benghazi with Lieutenant General Saddam Haftar, the acting commander-in-chief of the Libyan National Army. This marked the first visit by a senior Qatari official to Benghazi since the country's political split occurred 14 years ago. The discussions between Al-Khulaifi and Haftar centered on Libya's political developments, ways to enhance bilateral relations, and strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

“

welcomed the Qatari delegation led by Al-Khulaifi, stressing the depth of the fraternal relations between the two countries and praising Qatar’s efforts to support Libya’s stability and unity.

Saddam Haftar welcomed the Qatari delegation, emphasizing the deep fraternal ties between the two countries and commending Qatar's commitment to Libya's stability and unity. The General Command of the Libyan National Army reported that Al-Khulaifi expressed his satisfaction with the visit to Benghazi, noting the city's stability and urban development. He extended a formal invitation to Saddam Haftar to visit Qatar for further consultations.

“

praised the stability and urban development the city was experiencing.

Prior to meeting Haftar, Al-Khulaifi met with his brother, Belqasim Haftar, director-general of the Libya Development and Reconstruction Fund. Their discussions focused on cooperation in development and reconstruction, economic partnerships, and the potential involvement of Qatari institutions and companies in projects managed by the fund. This outreach signifies Qatar's intent to play a more active role in Libya's future, seeking to translate diplomatic engagement into practical cooperation and partnerships.

“

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.