Türkiye vows to keep mediating between Libya’s rival factions

Following a diplomatic tour that took him to both Tripoli and Benghazi, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced on Wednesday that Ankara remains fully dedicated to its role as a mediator in Libya’s protracted political stalemate. Concluding his meetings with rival leaders from the divided nation’s eastern and western administrations, Fidan expressed optimism about the prospects for reunification, stating that he had received a “positive” impression from all parties regarding the integration process.

Balanced diplomacy gains trust

“The ability of Türkiye to maintain equal-footed relations with both the east and the west, and to be a country that genuinely desires Libya’s unity and territorial integrity, is greatly appreciated here,” Fidan told reporters in Benghazi. His itinerary included a crucial session with Khalifa Haftar, the commander of eastern forces, alongside his deputy Gen. Saddam Haftar, Speaker Aguila Saleh, and Belkacem Haftar of the Development and Reconstruction Fund. Fidan emphasized that all these key actors in the east have voiced strong backing for national reunification, while officials in Tripoli also endorsed the effort, albeit with certain conditions attached.

Economic partnership and reconstruction

Beyond political reconciliation, the Turkish minister underscored the expanding economic footprint of Turkish contractors in Libya, noting that their expertise is highly valued by both administrations. “The professional, qualified and high-quality work carried out by Turkish companies is seriously appreciated by both sides,” Fidan remarked, encouraging more Turkish industrial firms to establish factories in Libya. He cited the country’s abundant energy resources, competitive labor costs, and favorable market access as compelling incentives for new investments. According to Fidan, these economic ties serve as a foundation for the broader political objective of creating a “single, sovereign and independent Libya.”

International coordination and next steps

Acknowledging the hurdles that remain, Fidan disclosed that Ankara is actively consulting with the United States, Egypt, and other regional stakeholders to advance the negotiation process. He referenced a specific US initiative that Washington is pursuing in coordination with Türkiye. “There are certain obstacles. We will discuss these with our relevant institutions and colleagues. We also need to hold consultations with other countries,” he explained. The minister also noted that Libya has experienced a relative calm since 2019, a stability he attributed in part to Türkiye’s constructive foreign policy approach under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s leadership. Fidan is scheduled to travel to Egypt next, a nation he described as a “friend and ally” for regional cooperation on Gulf and Palestinian issues.