Lukashenko and Haftar Discuss Strengthening Belarus-Libya Relations

President Alexander Lukashenko met with Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar to discuss enhancing Belarus-Libya relations. Both leaders emphasized mutual cooperation amid Libya’s challenging situation, focusing on humanitarian, social, and economic partnerships. The meeting highlighted Belarus’s readiness to support Libya’s recovery and development, with discussions on strategic cooperation for future benefits to both nations.

Today, at the Palace of Independence, President Alexander Lukashenko engaged in discussions with a delegation from Libya led by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, the Supreme Commander of the Libyan National Army. The enduring relationship between Belarus and Libya was emphasized, with Lukashenko expressing a commitment to strengthening bilateral ties for mutual benefit, notwithstanding the current challenging context in Libya.

The long-standing friendship between the nations had not been actively highlighted recently, particularly amid ongoing conflict in Libya. Maxim Ryzhenkov, the Belarusian Minister of Foreign Affairs, pointed out that Belarus has historically understood the dynamics of Libya’s situation, including the need for development of its industrial, social, and cultural resources following significant turmoil.

President Lukashenko remarked on the longstanding effects of NATO’s intervention in Libya in 2011, asserting that Belarus stands ready to assist Libya in its reconstruction efforts. During the meeting, various areas of potential cooperation were discussed, including humanitarian and economic projects, as both nations seek to rejuvenate their partnership.

Lukashenko warmly welcomed Haftar, expressing his knowledge and respect for Libya and its people, indicating his readiness to provide support in areas deemed useful by Libyan leadership. The Belarusian leader assured Haftar that agreements reached during his visit would be honored promptly.

Field Marshal Haftar reciprocated with appreciation for the meeting and expressed a keen interest in strengthening cooperative efforts between Belarus and Libya. He praised Belarus for its stability and the leadership that has fostered a peaceful environment amid regional tensions, emphasizing that his country looks to Belarus as a model.

Haftar articulated a strong desire for a strategic partnership, underscoring that mutual cooperation will be of significant benefit to both nations. The talks lasted approximately two and a half hours, predominantly behind closed doors, culminating in an exchange of gifts, including agricultural equipment from Belarus to Libya.

In summary, the talks between President Lukashenko and Field Marshal Haftar signify a renewed commitment to enhancing Belarus-Libya relations, despite the complexities of the situation in Libya. Both leaders expressed a strong desire to cooperate in various sectors, fostering a beneficial partnership moving forward. The discussions mark an important step in strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.

Original Source: news.by