Tripoli: Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani engaged in discussions on Sunday to explore ways to enhance bilateral relations and reactivate cooperation frameworks between Libya and Syria. The meeting took place in Tripoli following Shaibani's arrival in the Libyan capital, as stated by Libya's Government of National Unity.
According to Anadolu Agency, the discussions focused on reactivating Libyan-Syrian cooperation frameworks, elevating diplomatic representation, and revitalizing a joint higher committee. The two leaders emphasized strengthening economic, investment, and trade cooperation. They also addressed financial issues and outstanding dues between the institutions of both countries.
The Libyan-Syrian Joint Higher Committee, an official bilateral cooperation framework, is designed to strengthen political, economic, and social relations. It operates at the prime ministerial level, coordinating joint efforts across various sectors. The meeting also delved into security cooperation, counterterrorism, consular services, and issues concerning prisoners, detainees, refugees, and displaced people, alongside the reopening of the Syrian Consulate in Benghazi.
Dbeibeh highlighted the importance of 'opening a new chapter in relations between Libya and Syria based on shared interests, practical cooperation, and addressing outstanding issues in a manner that serves the citizens of both countries,' as per the statement. The Syrian Foreign Ministry noted that Shaibani and Dbeibeh discussed ways to strengthen and advance bilateral relations in various fields, emphasizing broader cooperation and enhanced communication between relevant institutions.
During his visit, Shaibani met with Libyan Oil and Gas Minister Khalifa Abdulsadek and Libyan Investment Authority Chairman and CEO Ali Mahmoud Hassan to discuss cooperation in energy and investment, aiming to expand partnerships and exchange expertise in mutually beneficial sectors. He also met Taher Al-Baour, responsible for managing Libya's Foreign Ministry and international cooperation, to discuss strengthening relations and expanding cooperation.
The two sides signed a cooperation agreement to activate their previous deal regarding the Joint High Committee, amending it to align with political developments in both countries, as reported by the SANA news agency. Shaibani's visit marks a significant step as he arrived in Tripoli to reopen Syria's embassy after a 14-year closure. The Syrian Embassy in Tripoli, which closed in 2012, is set to reopen following its flag being raised in August 2025, symbolizing renewed diplomatic ties.