Libya’s Tripoli Government meets with Italy to enhance military ties
Libya’s Government of National Unity (GNU) has strengthened its military ties with Italy amid UN calls for Libyan factions to unite behind the political roadmap, according to Asharq Al Awsat on September 5th.
The GNU is based in the Libyan capital of Tripoli, which has seen tensions simmer through armed militia violence and attacks on UN headquarters within the city.
Security challenges are apparent, with GNU-aligned forces battling to assert control of the capital against units of the “Deterrence Apparatus” and their allies.
Amid the ongoing fear of violence and political instability, the GNU sent a delegation to Rome to meet Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto and the head of Italian intelligence.
Talks focused on bilateral defence ties, enhancing Libya’s military capabilities and boosting cooperation in security and training.
Italy and the UN-backed, Tripoli-based GNU have had relatively productive diplomatic relations, signing a cluster of business agreements this year which aim to enhance cooperation and boost infrastructure in Libya.
During the visit, the GNU stated the two governments reaffirmed the importance of “ongoing coordination and consultation to serve shared interests and support regional stability.”
Italy have pursued close ties with Libya’s neighbouring countries to support development in the region, pledging 400 million dollars to support Tunisia’s shift to green energy and signing energy agreements with Algeria.
As Italy and Libya continue to maintain close military ties, UN envoy Hanna Tetteh has begun efforts to implement Libya’s political roadmap, which is fraught with obstacles derived from Libya’s factionalised institutions.
The UN Security Council has urged Libyan institutions to work towards compromises enabling a Libyan-led, transparent process without preconditions, prioritising the unification of Libyan institutions.
Reported by the Libya Review, the United Nations Support Mission to Libya has officially begun implementing this new political roadmap, and the international support of western nations such as Italy will be crucial for ensuring the roadmap can lead to a sustainable, democratic nation.
Asharq Al Awsat, Maghrebi.org, Libya Review
Want to chase the pulse of North Africa?
Subscribe to receive our FREE weekly PDF magazine
