On Monday evening, the Deputy Minister of Defense of the Government of National Unity, Major General Abdul Salam Salem Al-Zoubi, received at his office in the ministry’s headquarters in the capital, Tripoli, the European Union Ambassador to Libya, Nicola Orlando, and his accompanying delegation, in a meeting described as official that discussed enhancing joint cooperation and supporting efforts for stability and security in the country.

According to what the Ministry of Defense published on its official page, the two sides discussed ways to raise the level of coordination with European Union institutions, to contribute to consolidating security and unifying efforts on issues of common interest, and to enhance Libya’s role and position in its regional and international environment.

For his part, the European Union Ambassador, Orlando, congratulated the Ministry of Defense in a tweet on the success of the “Flintlock 2026” exercises, and on the steps taken to enhance the coordination of national efforts, especially in the field of land border monitoring.

Orlando affirmed the European Union’s readiness to support these priorities, pointing to discussions on current and future areas of cooperation in light of regional and international changes, including cooperation within the framework of the European Union’s “Irini” operation and its role in supporting Libyan maritime institutions.

Tripoli

Tripoli is the capital and largest city of Libya, with a history dating back to its founding by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BCE, who called it Oea. It later became a key Roman and Byzantine settlement before being conquered by Arab Muslims in the 7th century. The city features a blend of ancient Roman ruins, Ottoman-era architecture, and a historic medina, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage.

Libya

Libya is a North African country with a rich history shaped by ancient civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, and Ottomans. It is home to five UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Roman ruins of Leptis Magna and the rock art of Tadrart Acacus. After gaining independence in 1951, Libya experienced periods of monarchy and dictatorship under Muammar Gaddafi, followed by political instability and conflict since the 2011 revolution.