Latest news with #Italian-LibyanEconomicForum
Libya Observer
a day ago
- Business
- Libya Observer
Italian ambassador highlights role of economic ties in Libya's stability
Italy's Ambassador to Libya, Gianluca Alberini, has stressed the importance of economic cooperation as a means to promote political stability in the country. Speaking to Italy's Nova news agency during the Italian-Libyan Economic Forum in Benghazi, Alberini described Libya as still politically fragmented and facing complex institutional challenges. He said Italy is playing an active role in helping restore Libyan institutions, support national unification, and drive economic development. The ambassador welcomed the strong participation of local officials in the forum, particularly the mayor of Benghazi. Alberini also pointed to efforts by the Italian embassy in Tripoli and consulate in Benghazi to assist Italian companies and citizens, facilitate visa procedures for Libyans, and deepen bilateral cooperation. He noted progress in the field of education, describing it as a foundation for balanced and collaborative local development. Tags: Gianluca Alberini Libyan-Italian economic forum
Libya Review
4 days ago
- Business
- Libya Review
Belgassem Haftar: Italian Firms Vital to Libya's Reconstruction
The return of Italian companies to eastern Libya marks a 'historic moment,' both symbolically and operationally, according to Belgassem Haftar, Director of Libya's Reconstruction and Development Fund. Speaking to Agenzia Nova on the sidelines of the Italian-Libyan Economic Forum in Benghazi, Haftar described the renewed cooperation as a significant step forward. 'Italian firms have a deep understanding of our market and share long-standing historical, geographical, and cultural ties with Libya. Their experience and technical capabilities are exactly what we need,' Haftar said. He assured Italian stakeholders that Libya would honour all contractual commitments, including payment obligations. 'The most important element is trust. We will respect all agreements signed with Italian companies. We have many projects that will rely on their participation,' he added. Haftar explained that the Fund has proposed an €11 billion budget to the House of Representatives as part of a three-year development plan. The programme is built on sectoral studies to improve public services in key areas such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, environment, logistics, and transportation. 'For example, the infrastructure plan for Benghazi is expected to last between three to five years and will also aim to reduce environmental pollution. It is a strategic project that will open many opportunities for foreign companies,' he explained. Addressing Libya's internal divisions, Haftar stressed that national unity and political stability depend heavily on development. 'Development is a critical factor for reaching a political solution,' he said. He argued that economic revitalisation could drive not only local stability but also encourage political cohesion and stronger ties with neighbouring countries. The Benghazi forum is seen as a key platform for strengthening economic collaboration between Libya and Italy, with numerous contracts and partnerships expected to follow. Tags: Belgassem HaftarItalylibyaReconstruction
Libya Review
08-06-2025
- Business
- Libya Review
Italian-Libyan Chamber of Commerce to Open in Benghazi
The Italian-Libyan Chamber of Commerce plans to open a new office in Benghazi to strengthen its cooperation with local business stakeholders, according to the Chamber's President Nicola Colicchi. Speaking to Italy's Nova news agency, Colicchi emphasized that the initiative aims to foster stable partnerships between Italian and Libyan small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). 'We are working in close harmony with Libyan institutions,' he noted, adding that the goal is to create a collaborative business environment that facilitates knowledge and technology exchange and supports outreach to African markets where Libya is already active. Benghazi to Host Italian-Libyan Economic Forum The announcement comes as Benghazi prepares to host the Italian-Libyan Economic Forum from 24 to 27 June, with the participation of Italian companies seeking expansion opportunities in Libya. Colicchi stressed that economic development is a critical pathway to achieving political stability in Libya. 'When local communities start benefiting from an integrated economy, it helps heal internal political divisions,' he said. He also voiced support for holding swift national elections, calling for a strong economic development push alongside diplomatic efforts to reunify the country. Italy Reinforces Presence Amid Global Competition Ettore Rosato, Vice President of the Italian-Libyan Parliamentary Friendship Group, stated that bolstering Italy's presence in Libya is crucial in the face of strong international competition. 'Italy must strengthen its ties with Libya to avoid losing more influence to competitors like Turkey and Russia,' Rosato warned. In a sign of growing bilateral engagement, the Italian Consulate General in Benghazi recently hosted a Republic Day celebration attended by over 450 guests, including Libyan officials, institutional representatives, and business leaders. Francesco Saverio De Luigi, the Italian Consul General in Benghazi, noted a sharp rise in Italian activity in eastern Libya, citing the issuance of over 4,000 visas in 2024 and the resumption of direct flights to Rome as evidence of normalization and renewed cooperation. Italy's Ambassador to Libya, Gianluca Alberini, reaffirmed that Italy remains Libya's top trading partner, with bilateral trade surpassing €8.6 billion in 2024. He also welcomed the reintroduction of Italian language courses in Libyan public schools and the allocation of 100 scholarships to Libyan students by 2025—the highest number across Italy's entire diplomatic network. Tags: benghaziItalian Chamber of CommerceItalylibya
