President Lukashenko Hosts Talks with Libyan National Army Commander Khalifa Haftar

President Alexander Lukashenko met with Khalifa Haftar, the Field Marshal of the Libyan National Army, to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation. The leaders underscored their historical ties and Belarus’ willingness to assist Libya in its recovery efforts. The meeting reaffirmed mutual interests in diverse areas, highlighting the potential for strategic partnerships between Belarus and Libya.

Today, at the Palace of Independence, President Alexander Lukashenko engaged in discussions with Khalifa Haftar, the Field Marshal and Supreme Commander of the Libyan National Army. The talks emphasized the long-standing and amicable relations between Belarus and Libya, expressing a mutual commitment to enhance cooperation despite the ongoing challenges in Libya. Lukashenko articulated Belarus’ readiness to support Libya during its transitional phase toward normalization.

The Belarusian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maxim Ryzhenkov, alluded to the historical interactions between the two nations, underscoring Belarus’s previous involvement in Libya and the importance of partnerships during Libya’s efforts to rebuild. He attributed the origins of the Libyan conflict to NATO’s interventions in 2011, highlighting how this led to significant disruptions in the country.

President Lukashenko conveyed an eagerness to initiate a new chapter of cooperation, offering assistance to Libya in numerous areas, including economic and humanitarian spheres. During the meeting, he expressed a personal connection to Libya, having previously visited the nation, and reassured Haftar of Belarus’ informed understanding of the current situation in Libya.

Field Marshal Haftar reciprocated the sentiments, expressing gratitude for the invitation and highlighting Libya’s desire for closer cooperation with Belarus. He praised Belarus for maintaining peace and stability amidst regional tensions, noting the effective governance that has fostered Belarus’ development into a technologically advanced state.

In concluding the discussions, Haftar reiterated a strong interest in establishing a strategic partnership that would be mutually beneficial for both nations. The meeting, lasting approximately two and a half hours, featured closed-door negotiations, with the exchange of gifts, in which President Lukashenko presented the Libyan delegation with certificates for domestic agricultural tractors and buses.

In summary, the discussions between President Lukashenko and Field Marshal Haftar marked a significant moment in Belarus-Libya relations, focusing on rebuilding cooperation in various sectors. Both leaders expressed their commitment to fostering beneficial partnerships despite the challenges faced by Libya. The meeting served as a platform for reaffirming shared interests and expanding diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.

Original Source: news.by