Italy positions itself as key partner in Libya’s recovery

Italy is seeking to deepen its partnership with Libya, broadening a relationship long anchored in energy into one that could play a significant role in the country’s wider economic recovery.

Italy’s ambassador to Libya, Gianluca Alberini, said Italian companies are ready not only to invest, but also to transfer technology, technical expertise and modern working practices to Libyan counterparts, as reported by Libya Review via the Libyan News Agency on April 28^th. He described the move as part of a broader, long-term commitment to supporting Libya’s reconstruction and institutional development.

Energy remains the cornerstone of the relationship between the two countries. Italian firms, led by Eni, have maintained a presence in Libya for decades, continuing operations even during periods of instability. Recent gas discoveries by Eni, estimated at more than one trillion cubic feet, have further reinforced the strategic importance of the partnership and underlined Libya’s enduring role in Italy’s energy security.

But the relationship is increasingly extending beyond hydrocarbons. Alberini highlighted growing opportunities in infrastructure, agricultural modernisation and pharmaceuticals, sectors regarded as essential to Libya’s efforts to diversify its economy and rebuild its public services.

Italy has also expanded its engagement in areas such as the education and healthcare sectors, reflecting a broader economic and diplomatic strategy. Rome has sought to maintain dialogue across Libya’s political landscape, reinforcing its role as a partner committed to stability and national unity.

Alberini reiterated Italy’s support for Libya’s reconstruction, describing it as crucial to restoring essential services and strengthening the economy. He said the country is experiencing a “favourable moment” to advance its historically rooted relationship with Italy.

As international interest in Libya grows, Italy appears determined to remain at the forefront of rebuilding efforts. With its colonial roots, extensive commercial interests and an expanding role across multiple sectors, Rome is positioning itself as one of Libya’s most important long-term partners.

Alberini’s emphasis on technology transfer and skills-sharing suggests a notable shift from the neocolonial extractive nature of Italy’s economic engagement with Libya.

Rather than reinforcing a model built on dependency, where foreign capital, expertise and technology remained firmly in external hands, the comments from Alberini points towards a more collaborative partnership aimed at building local capacity and supporting Libya’s economic self-sufficiency.

Libya Review via Libyan News Agency, Maghrebi.org