Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis met with General Khalifa Haftar, commander of the Libyan National Army, in Benghazi on Sunday, July 6, for a one-hour discussion focusing on curbing irregular migration and addressing maritime issues in the Eastern Mediterranean.
The visit forms part of Athens’ broader diplomatic strategy to enhance regional cooperation and stability while deepening its ties with both eastern and western Libya.
Key topics included the rise in irregular migration flows toward Crete, with Greece seeking closer coordination with Libyan authorities to mitigate these movements. Discussions also touched on maritime jurisdiction, a sensitive subject given ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.
During the talks, Gerapetritis emphasised the “historic and cultural bonds” between Greece and Libya, highlighting their shared geography and longstanding ties.
He later stated that he and General Haftar had exchanged views on “migration management, maritime jurisdiction, and the future of bilateral cooperation,” and stressed the importance of a shared “vision for a peaceful and prosperous Mediterranean.”
Later the same day, Gerapetritis met with Belkacem Haftar, head of Libya’s reconstruction efforts, who extended an invitation to Greek businesses to take part in rebuilding the war-torn nation – offering potential economic opportunities for Greece.
Although the Greek Foreign Minister had initially planned a visit to Tripoli, the capital of Libya’s UN-recognised government, logistical issues forced a postponement. The visit is now rescheduled for July 15.
Source: tovima.com
