19 December – 25 December: Italian PM meetings Libyan leaders

Dec 25, 2018 | International actors

On 23 December, Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte visited the head of the Libyan National Army (LNA), Khalifa Haftar, at the LNA’s General Command in al-Rajma. According to a press release, the two discussed domestic and international developments, Libya-Italian relations, and joint cooperation between both nations. It is reported that Conte also met with the head of the House of Representatives, Aqeela Saleh.

On 23 December, Conte also visited the head of the Government of National Accord (GNA), Fayez al-Serraj, in Tripoli. According to the GNA’s Media Office, the two discussed Libyan political developments, bilateral relations and ways to increase Libya-Italian cooperation. Serraj is reported to have spoken to Conte of the GNA’s security and economic reforms. The discussion also included activating a joint friendship agreement.

On 20 December, Italian news agency Adnkronos reported the Italian government is looking to reopen its consulate in Benghazi following meetings with the head of the Libyan National Army (LNA), Khalifa Haftar, on 5 December.