Latest News from Libya Review
Libya Review
8 hours ago
- Politics
- Libya Review
Haftar Attends Benghazi University Ceremony
Benghazi University has honoured its top-performing students from the graduating classes of 2017 to 2024 in a ceremony held with the support of the Libyan Reconstruction and Development Fund. The event celebrated academic excellence and the role of national institutions in rebuilding Libya's higher education sector. The university praised the Reconstruction Fund for its efforts in revitalising the university's infrastructure and enhancing its academic capabilities. According to a statement from the university, the fund contributed to the construction of new buildings, equipping of laboratories, provision of educational resources, and the awarding of scholarships to outstanding and financially disadvantaged students. It also supported curriculum development to align education with the needs of the job market. The ceremony was held at the university's main campus and was attended by the Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army, Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar. Also present were Prime Minister Osama Hammad, senior government officials, university presidents, and faculty members. The event, held under the patronage of the Reconstruction Fund, highlighted the importance of academic achievement in Libya's national recovery. During the ceremony, a select group of top students was honoured for their academic distinction. Field Marshal Haftar congratulated the graduates, expressing pride in their achievements and describing them as vital assets to the country's future. He emphasised the role of educated youth in rebuilding Libya and driving its progress. In a significant announcement at the event's conclusion, Haftar pledged to send the top graduates abroad to pursue postgraduate studies. This gesture, he stated, was a tribute to their dedication and a strategic investment in the nation's human capital. Haftar urged the honoured students to remain committed to excellence and serve as role models for their peers. He described them as bearers of the torch of knowledge and the foundation of Libya's future development. Tags: Benghazi UniversityGraduation Ceremonykhalifa haftarlibya
Libya Review
11 hours ago
- Politics
- Libya Review
UN Extends Libya Arms Embargo Ship Inspection Mandate
The United Nations Security Council has extended its authorisation for member states and regional organisations to inspect vessels suspected of violating the arms embargo on Libya. The extension, granted under Resolution 2780, will last for six more months. The draft resolution was submitted by France and Greece and adopted with 13 votes in favour. However, both Russia and China abstained, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the mandate. They voiced particular scepticism about the European Union's Operation Irini, which remains the only active naval mission conducting inspections. Russia and China also expressed reservations about the disposal mechanisms for seized materials, questioning transparency and accountability in the process. The resolution allows UN member states and regional bodies, including Operation Irini, to inspect vessels in international waters heading to or from Libya. Such inspections can be carried out if there are reasonable grounds to believe the ships are carrying arms or related materials in breach of the international embargo. The arms embargo on Libya has been in place since 2011, following the uprising that led to the ousting of long-time leader Muammar Gaddafi. In 2016, the Security Council adopted Resolution 2292, expanding the mandate to include maritime inspections to ensure compliance. Operation Irini, launched in 2020 by the European Union, has been the primary tool for maritime enforcement of the embargo. Despite its efforts, the operation has faced criticism from some quarters for allegedly being selective in its targeting and limited in scope. The renewed resolution also requests UN Secretary-General António Guterres to submit a report within five months detailing the implementation of the mandate and its outcomes. The extension of the mandate comes amid ongoing instability in Libya, with rival factions still vying for control. Tags: Arms EmbargoIRINIlibyaSecurity Councilun
Libya Review
11 hours ago
- Business
- Libya Review
Libya Invests in Afreximbank to Support Reconstruction
Libya has officially become a shareholder in the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) after fully paying for its shares on 13 May. The move marks a strategic milestone aimed at supporting the country's economic recovery and strengthening its integration into the African trade and investment landscape. According to a statement on Afreximbank's website, Libya's accession to the bank's founding agreement in October 2024 made it the 52nd African nation to join the institution. This step contributes to Afreximbank's goal of achieving continental coverage and advancing its agenda for African integration. The bank operates across key sectors including infrastructure, oil and gas, and the export of manufactured goods to African markets. It also supports regional integration projects that connect Libya with other North African countries. Professor Benedict Okechukwu Oramah, Chairman of Afreximbank, praised Libya's investment, noting that it positions the bank to play a critical role in supporting the Libyan government's reconstruction efforts. He highlighted that Libya's membership enables investment in vital cross-border infrastructure projects, such as oil pipelines, road links between Libya and Egypt, and electricity interconnection projects with Tunisia and Algeria. 'This demonstrates the confidence African governments place in their multilateral financial institution,' said Oramah, adding that Libya's contribution will help expand the bank's capital base and enhance its impact across the region. Libya's Minister of Finance, Dr Khaled Al-Mabrouk, representing the Government of National Unity (GNU), emphasised the significance of this partnership. He described Libya's membership as a turning point in the country's path to economic diversification and reconstruction. 'This acquisition establishes Libya as a full member and shareholder in this prestigious African multilateral institution. It is a historic achievement following our signing of the bank's founding agreement,' said Al-Mabrouk. He added that Libya's move reflects its commitment to deeper economic integration within Africa. 'As the 52nd African country to join Afreximbank, we affirm our dedication to building strong trade and investment ties across the continent.' For over three decades, Afreximbank has led efforts to transform intra-African trade, offering innovative financing solutions that drive industrialisation and economic growth.
Libya Review
15 hours ago
- Politics
- Libya Review
Libya Joins UN Anti-Crime Meeting in Vienna
Libya joins UN meeting to boost international cooperation against organized crime, corruption, and money laundering Libya took part in the 16th session of the UN Working Group on Technical Assistance and International Cooperation, held in Vienna, Austria, from 26 to 30 May 2025, as part of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime. Libya was represented by Ibrahim Ali, Head of the Expert Committee for Reviewing the Convention and Director of the Office for Anti-Money Laundering and Asset Recovery. The meeting brought together experts from around the world to address a range of critical topics, including the criminalization of organized fraud, management of illicit proceeds, witness and victim protection, and monitoring the implementation of the convention. Delegates also explored ways to enhance international cooperation in tracking down criminal networks exploiting corruption. A particular focus was placed on the emerging threats of cybercrime and virtual currencies, anti-money laundering efforts, and the nexus between organized crime and terrorism. Participants shared best practices and technical solutions to confront these evolving challenges. The session also reviewed the technical assistance needs of state parties during the review process of the Convention and its Protocols. It issued key recommendations to the Conference of the Parties on how to support the treaty's implementation globally. Libya's active participation, led by Ibrahim Ali, reflects its commitment to engaging with the international community, fulfilling its obligations under international law, and intensifying efforts to combat organized crime, recover stolen assets, and uphold the rule of law. Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations. Libya's economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya's economy. The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions. The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition. Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges. Tags: libyaMoney LaunderingunUnited NationsUNODCVienna
Libya Review
15 hours ago
- Health
- Libya Review
Benghazi University Hosts Free Screenings for Blood Pressure Day
Benghazi International University (BIU), in collaboration with Eva Pharma and its School of Nursing Sciences, along with the University Medical Center, hosted a public awareness event on Thursday to mark World Hypertension Day. The event aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of high blood pressure—often referred to as the 'silent killer'—and to promote preventive healthcare within the local community. Speaking at the event, University Dean Dr. Mohamed Saad emphasized the critical importance of the day, highlighting the prevalence and serious health risks posed by hypertension. 'This is one of the most widespread and dangerous chronic diseases, and it often goes undetected until it causes major harm. Raising awareness about prevention, healthy diets, regular physical activity, and consistent medical monitoring is essential,' he stated. Dr. Saad noted that the initiative reflects the university's ongoing commitment to community engagement and public health education. He added that the program brought together both academic and medical professionals to offer practical knowledge and services to the public. The event featured free blood pressure screenings, educational lectures, expert advice on nutrition and prevention, and informational pamphlets for students and visitors. This campaign is part of a broader effort by the university to support health literacy and community wellbeing in Benghazi and beyond. Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations. Libya's economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya's economy. The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions. The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition. Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
