In meetings with authorities in eastern and western Libya, Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Edmondo Cirielli emphasized Italy’s role as a neutral mediator in the Libyan crisis. Describing his encounter with Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, the commander of the Libyan National Army (LNA), in Benghazi as positive, Cirielli discussed the situation in Cyrenaica, the prospects of Italian support, the UN’s action plan, and the management of migration flows.
Cirielli stressed that Italy does not solely adopt a security approach towards Africa but seeks international cooperation. While recognizing the Tripoli-based government, Rome works towards Libya’s unity and aims to build excellent relations with all parties to ease tensions.
The Italian official highlighted the friendly relations with Libyan parties, stating that Italian mediation always adheres to official diplomatic channels. The issue of migrants within Libya, many of whom cannot leave due to lack of funds or legal channels, was also discussed.
Italy seeks to assist Cyrenaica, Tripoli, and Tunisia in managing irregular migration flows through humane means. Both eastern and western Libyan authorities requested Italian assistance in training and employment opportunities for migrants, representing an opportunity for economic development.