When Giorgia Meloni, Italian Prime Minister, sets foot in Tripoli to attend the Italy-Libya Economic Forum, it is much more than a simple protocol visit. It is a clear demonstration of the importance that Italy places on its relations with Libya, and by extension, with the European Union. Cooperation between these two countries has a strategic dimension for Italy, particularly in the fight against illegal migration flows and human trafficking.
Indeed, Meloni stressed the importance of bilateral collaboration in combating these scourges, highlighting the need to promote growth and development in Libya in order to limit the departure of populations. This political vision, focused on cooperation and partnership, is part of a global dynamic aimed at strengthening ties between the two nations.
The figures show the intensification of trade between Italy and Libya. In just three years, trade flows have more than tripled, from 2.6 to 9.1 billion euros. These figures reflect a booming economic cooperation, beneficial to both countries.
The announcement of the resumption of direct flights between Tripoli and Rome by the Italian airline ITA demonstrates the desire to strengthen ties between the two capitals and to promote economic and cultural exchanges.
The Libyan Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs, Adel Jumaa, stressed that these figures constitute a solid foundation on which to build new key agreements between Italy and Libya. New partnerships and enhanced cooperation are expected following this Economic Forum.
Expressing his gratitude to the Italian government for its growing interest in cooperating with Libya, the Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity, Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, stressed the importance of this partnership for the development and stability of Libya.
This visit by Giorgia Meloni to Tripoli thus marks a new chapter in relations between Italy and Libya, highlighting the importance of cooperation and partnership to address common challenges and promote the economic and social development of both countries.