Libya seeks end to EU flight ban, deepens cooperation on migration and energy

In a significant diplomatic move, Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh has launched a fresh appeal to the European Union to end its flight restrictions on Libyan aircraft, emphasising that the long-standing ban hampers crucial economic and social connections between Libya and European nations.

The EU imposed the flight ban in 2014 amidst concerns over Libya’s deteriorating security situation and aviation safety standards following the 2011 revolution. The restrictions, which prevent all Libyan-registered aircraft from entering EU airspace, were implemented as part of the EU Air Safety List measures.

This ban has forced Libyan travellers to rely on foreign carriers and complex routing arrangements, significantly impacting business travel, tourism, and family connections between Libya and Europe.

During high-level talks in Tripoli with EU Ambassador Nicola Orlando, the Prime Minister emphasised Libya’s commitment to meeting international aviation safety requirements and called for concrete steps towards lifting the ban.

The meeting, held at Libya’s Cabinet headquarters, marked an important step in ongoing efforts to strengthen Libya-EU relations.

The discussions built upon momentum from Dbeibeh’s Brussels visit in May, encompassing several strategic areas of cooperation. Migration management emerged as a central topic, with Libya showcasing its recent role as host of the Mediterranean Migration Forum.

The Prime Minister sought increased EU support for infrastructure development to better handle migration flows across the region.

Renewable energy initiatives dominated the economic agenda, reflecting Libya’s ambitious plans to diversify its economy beyond traditional oil and gas sectors.

Dbeibeh made a compelling case for enhanced EU participation in sustainable energy projects, arguing that such collaboration would generate employment opportunities whilst supporting Libya’s transition to cleaner energy sources.

The Prime Minister outlined a vision where expanded EU-Libya cooperation could yield mutual benefits, particularly in:
– Aviation safety and connectivity
– Migration management infrastructure
– Renewable energy development
– Sustainable economic growth
– Job creation initiatives

Ambassador Orlando’s presence at these discussions signals the EU’s continued engagement with Libya on these critical issues, as both parties work towards strengthening their strategic partnership in the Mediterranean region.

The potential lifting of the flight ban would mark a significant milestone in Libya’s post-conflict recovery and its reintegration into international aviation networks.

It would also represent a vote of confidence in Libya’s efforts to enhance its aviation safety standards and regulatory framework in line with international requirements.